Many properties have been observed throughout the community with tall grass and weeds.  Thus, we wish to provide this friendly reminder that May 1st marked the beginning of the Auburn Hills’ Tall Grass/Noxious Weed Abatement Program. 

What are the City’s standards, and how does the abatement program work?  Between May 1st and October 15th, Chapter 78 of the Auburn Hills Code of Ordinances specifies that grass/weeds on improved properties cannot exceed eight inches in height.  A violation of that rule is considered a nuisance and will result in the City placing a green door hanger on the front door of the home or business.  The green door hanger will notify the occupants that their lawn must be cut within 72 hours. 

In the case of a vacant lot, a notice will be mailed giving property owners ten days to comply.  If both situations, if the vegetation is not cut within the time frame requested, then the location would be added to a list and cut by the City’s contractor at the property owner’s expense plus administrative fees.  These notices will only be issued once a year per location.  Formal tickets will be given to chronic violators.

Most of these ordinance violations are observed by Code Enforcement Officers during their daily rounds through the neighborhoods, but many cases result from complaints by citizens.  If you see a potential violation of this law, please feel free to call Code Enforcement at 248-364-6934 or e-mail at enfcomp@auburnhills.org to let us know.

Why does the City enforce this law?  Well, tall grass and weeds detract from the appearance of properties and can lead to property maintenance decline in neighborhoods.  In addition, undesirable wildlife like tics, rats, and mice use unmowed lawns as a habitat.  These insects and animals may carry diseases that could impact the health and safety of residents.  Lastly, unmowed grass tells passers-by that no one cares about the property, which invites criminal activity.

We thank all of the Auburn Hills’ residents and businesses that continue to keep our City looking good and not overgrown.

Steve Cohen, Director of Community Development