Overgrown grass or weeds that harbor pests, create a fire hazard, spread seeds, or are unsightly may be declared a public nuisance in Madison. Separately, all land (except larger natural/agricultural parcels) must be kept free of poison oak, poison ivy, and noxious or toxic weeds.
Two overlapping rules govern weeds. The weed-abatement article (Sec. 22-63) declares overgrown grass or weeds a nuisance when they breed vermin, threaten fire, bear irritating seeds, hide debris, or exceed 12 inches (non-ornamental). The property-maintenance article (Sec. 22-97(c)) additionally requires all land except parcels over one-half acre kept in a natural or agricultural state to be free of poison oak, poison ivy, any noxious or toxic weeds, and uncultivated or overgrown plants, unless secured from public view and access by a barrier. Both are enforced by Code Enforcement through notice and abatement.
Notice to abate (14 days, weed article; 30 days, property-maintenance article); city may abate and lien the cost; general penalty up to $500 and/or 12 months, each day a separate offense.
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Madison, AL
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