High grass and weeds: avoid property maintenance fees

Mowing season is here, Painesville.

City code requires that grass and weeds be kept under control:

• Residential properties: no higher than 6 inches
• All other properties: no higher than 12 inches

When properties become overgrown, Code Enforcement will issue a violation letter. Property owners then have 7 days to mow and trim the area, including around trees, fences, sidewalks, fire hydrants, utility poles, flower beds and other structures.

If the issue is not corrected within 7 days, the City may step in to cut the property. The cost of mowing, a $75 re-inspection fee and any contractor charges will be billed to the property owner.

If the bill is not paid within 30 days, the total amount — plus a 3% processing fee — will be added to the property’s tax bill through the Lake County Auditor.

For reference, mowing an average-sized lot in Painesville cost about $108 per cut last year.

One important note: each property receives only one warning letter per year. After that, additional violations may be addressed without further notice.

The easiest (and cheapest) solution? Keep it mowed.

Questions? Contact the Community Development Department at (440) 392-5922.