Lake Charles code officer warns common yard and sign practices can create safety, drainage hazards

Alicia Babineaux, a code enforcement officer for the city of Lake Charles, said the most common violations she sees are grass and mower clippings left in streets, vegetation overgrowing sidewalks and signs placed in rights-of-way that can create traffic hazards.

Babineaux made the remarks during part two of the city-produced City Shift segment when the host asked her to name the top items residents may not realize violate city codes. "One of the main things is the grass being blown in the street after, you know, you cut," she said, and added that clippings left on walkways or in gutters "could be a hazard."

Why it matters: Babineaux said grass in the street and overgrown trees or shrubs can impede pedestrian passage, reduce visibility at intersections and interfere with drainage. She also noted rights-of-way need to be kept clear because utilities and pedestrian access are located there, and signs placed near intersections can create "blind corners" that prevent drivers from seeing approaching traffic. "You have to be able to get to a stop sign or a red light and be able to look any direction and see any traffic coming," she said.

Details and examples: Babineaux listed three recurring problems: clippings and yard debris left on streets or sidewalks after mowing; vegetation that grows over sidewalks and blocks passage; and temporary signs—yard-sale, for-sale or political signsplaced in rights-of-way or at intersections. She said these are not merely aesthetic issues but can pose safety risks and hamper drainage and utility access.

Background: Babineaux said she has worked for the city for about 191/2 years and began in grounds maintenance at the municipal golf course, where she developed an interest in property upkeep and trimming.

The program did not announce any formal enforcement actions during the segment. The City Shift host closed the edition with a preview of next month's segment.