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Bertram council debates lowering weed height from 12 to 6 inches; no motion taken
Summary
Council discussed a proposed amendment to the International Property Maintenance Code (§302.4) to reduce allowed weed/plant growth from 12 inches to 6 inches; staff raised concerns about native grasses and enforcement, and the council took no motion to change the ordinance.
Councilors discussed a proposed amendment to Ordinance 223-1102825 (International Property Maintenance Code §302.4) to reduce the maximum allowed weed/plant growth from 12 inches to 6 inches. Proponents argued a lower limit would improve community appearance and safety; opponents and staff warned that native grasses in many yards commonly grow to 8–12 inches, which would make enforcement impractical and could disproportionately burden elderly or fixed-income residents.
Ted (code enforcement) said native grasses often require 8–12 inches and would complicate a 6-inch rule. A council member read an email from a resident (Jean Pearson) that cautioned a 6-inch rule would place an unnecessary burden on elderly and disabled residents. The council discussed using discretion and community assistance programs to help homeowners with compliance but ultimately took no motion, allowing the item to die for now.
"My only concern is native grasses in yards most time require at least 8 to 12 inches for those type[s]," Ted said during the discussion.
