Blaine, MN Property Maintenance: Vacant Lot Maintenance (2026)

Blaine's maintenance duties extend to vacant and undeveloped parcels. The Weeds and Tall Grass article (Chapter 90, Article II) applies to any platted lot or outlot, declaring vegetation that reaches 8 inches or greater in height, or that has gone to seed, a public nuisance (Sec. 90-34(a)); this covers vacant lots, not just occupied homes. Owners fronting a street right-of-way are responsible for general maintenance and upkeep of the boulevard, the area between the curb line and property line (BCO 90-34b), including mowing tall grass and weeds, raking leaves, and tree trimming. The sight-distance triangle at intersections must be kept clear of plantings, and no fence, object or planting over thirty (30) inches is allowed in that triangle on corner lots (BCO 82-231 thru 82-232). Where a vacant or any parcel fronts a sidewalk, the owner is responsible for snow removal within forty-eight (48) hours after snowfall ends (BCO 70-2 thru 70-4); the City may clear uncleared snow at the owner's expense. When a vegetation nuisance is not abated after notice, the City performs the work and assesses the cost to the property owner (Sec. 90-36). Vacant-lot complaints are handled by Community Standards at 763-785-6146.