Glasgow Weeds, High Grass, Certain Plants, and Debris Are Nuisances: Prohibition ordinance (§ 215.030)

A. The presence on land within the City of debris of any kind, or weeds, or noxious plants, or thickets, or brush as defined in this Article, unless specifically excepted, is hereby declared to be a public nuisance and is prohibited, unlawful, a violation of this Article, and subject to abatement.

B. Prohibited vegetation is meant to exclude shade trees, growths of timber, ornamental shrubs, fruit trees, domesticated berry bushes and vines, cultivated flowers and gardens, cover crops and domestic grains on lots and land within the City except where the plant's location or condition constitutes a menace to the safety, health, or welfare of the public or adjoining land owners by reasons that such conditions may:

1. Cause a fire hazard or other safety hazard.

2. Furnish cover for prowlers and illegal activities.

3. Create shelters and breeding places for rodents, disease-carrying insects, poisonous snakes, and other vermin.

4. Result in the aggravation of allergies of persons living within fifty (50) feet.

5. Obstruct visibility at street intersections.

C. Notwithstanding the definitions set forth and the exceptions to enforcement given, the enforcement officer shall have additional discretion to find vegetation to be either in violation or in conformity with this Article using the following guidelines:

1. The proximity of the vegetation to public sidewalks, streets, traveled alleys, and dwellings on adjoining property.

2. The slope of the land upon which the plant exists and the possibility of encouraging soil erosion if the vegetation is removed.

3. The accessibility to the plant by machines necessary to effectively control the plant.

4. The type of plant (the reason being that some plants may be less offensive than others, and that if accessibility to a piece of land for effective control is an issue, then different ground cover should be planted or nurtured or kept on that ground).

5. The location of the land on which the plants are growing, taking into consideration the general use of the land, thereby giving liberal deference to owners of agricultural land within the City, City parks, and industrial land.

6. The frequency and amount of rainfall which could reasonably delay timely control of the plant.