The City of Fort Wayne’s Tall Grass/Weed Program kicks off today, May 21, 2018. Neighborhood Code Compliance is responsible for enforcing the City’s Weed Program, which calls for weeds or grass to be no taller than nine inches.

For the first time this year, Weed Inspectors will be using a new computer app that allows them to do all their documentation in the field using an iPad. Because traditional paperwork normally takes about 1.5 hours per day, this time will now be available to respond to calls from the public, increasing productivity by approximately 25 percent.

Reports of high grass or weeds that exceed nine inches will be accepted beginning today; the public should call 311 or 260-427-8311 to report a possible violation. Online complaints may be filed at www.cityoffortwayne.org/citizen-services. Individuals reporting a violation will need to have the property’s specific street address to register the complaint.

Reports from the public of possible weed violations will be addressed beginning tomorrow, May 22, after the eight seasonal, part-time Weed Inspectors have completed their first day of training. Inspectors respond to reports from the public but also act proactively to identify high weeds and grass, particularly along high-traffic corridors.

“One property that is not mowed and looks neglected can negatively impact an entire neighborhood,” said Cindy Joyner, director of Community Development. “By helping remove blighting influences, the Weed Program can help protect property values and improve the quality of life in our city.”

When Weed Inspectors determine there is a violation, they take date-stamped electronic photos and post a placard on the cited property. As a courtesy, an abate notice is mailed to the owner of record who then has five days to correct the violation. After five days, the City’s mowing contractors will inspect to see if the property is in compliance and if not, they will mow and also take date-stamped before- and after-photos. The owner will then be charged for the mowing; if the invoice is not paid within 30 days, a lien will be placed on the property.