Des Moines prohibits vegetation over 12 inches and accumulations of junk, debris, or rubbish on vacant lots under the city's nuisance code. The Neighborhood Services Zoning Enforcement Division inspects and can abate violations at the owner's expense.
Des Moines Code Ch. 42, Art. VI (Nuisances) and Ch. 60, Art. III (Public Nuisance Code) together govern vacant-lot conditions. Section 42-567 et seq. address nuisance vegetation management: weeds and grass exceeding 12 inches constitute a public nuisance. 'Weeds' means all vegetation other than trees, shrubs, flowers, and maintained gardens. Accumulations of rubbish, debris, junk, or discarded materials on vacant or unoccupied lots are declared nuisances under Ch. 60-200. Upon notice, owners have a specified period to correct; if non-compliant, the city may contract for abatement and assess costs against the property as a special assessment. The Zoning Enforcement Division (515-283-4046) enforces.
Notice to owner; if uncorrected, city abates and levies cost as a property special assessment. Civil fine may also be issued; repeat violations can result in escalating penalties.
Des Moines, IA
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Des Moines, IA
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Des Moines, IA
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Des Moines, IA
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Des Moines, IA
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Des Moines, IA
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