Des Moines requires property owners to keep grass and weeds below 12 inches under the property maintenance code. The city actively enforces with notices and may mow non-compliant properties, billing the owner.
Des Moines Municipal Code requires all property owners to maintain grass, weeds, and vegetation at a height not exceeding 12 inches. This applies to all developed and vacant lots within city limits. The city's Neighborhood Inspection Division actively patrols and responds to complaints. When a violation is found, the property owner receives a notice to mow within a specified timeframe (typically 10 days). If the owner fails to comply, the city may contract mowing services and bill the property owner for the cost plus an administrative fee. Repeat violators face escalating penalties. The code also addresses noxious weeds, which must be controlled per Iowa Code Chapter 317.
Municipal infraction. City mowing charge billed to owner (approximately $250-400 per mow). Liens may be placed on properties with unpaid charges.
Des Moines, IA
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Des Moines, IA
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See how Des Moines's grass height limits rules stack up against other locations.
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