Lawn laws?

Tsukasa Buddha · 7th July 2011, 08:25 PM

I guess this is just my first time hearing about it, and I had assumed those housing associations would do it:

Quote:

The limits are set for aesthetic purposes, local officials said. Neighborhoods and business districts want to maintain a positive image, and tall grass works against that.

“If you’re a neighbor, you want the grass to be mowed,” said Derik Morefield, deputy city manager for Woodstock.

His city fields most complaints from lots owned by subdivision developers who seem to have forgotten about their vacant lots scattered amid new homes. An example, he said, is in the Apple Creek development on Dean Street south of Route 14, where about 1,000 homes were approved, but fewer than half have been built.

In most towns, community development or building departments handle complaints about tall grass. When a violation is noticed, the municipality sends a letter to the last known owner of the property. Generally, that party is given seven to 10 days to respond and get the grass mowed.

The next action varies depending on the municipality.

“The approach that we take is a softer approach,” Woodstock’s Morefield said. “We send letters, give time to comply, and if we don’t hear back, generally we try again to contact them.

“Ultimately, we can cite them for not having the grass mowed, and we can take them to municipal adjudication court, but that is the last resort,” he said. “We just want to see compliance. That is our No. 1 goal.”

In Hebron, where the height limit is 5 inches, the village is less generous.

“We give 10 days to contact us and another 10 days to correct the problem,” said Randall Funk, code enforcement, building inspector and public works superintendent.

“If that doesn’t work, we mow and put a lien against the property,” he said.

Linky.

I guess if you lived in a fire-prone area it might matter, though that is not the case here. It still seems bizarre that to me that you need to keep up your lawn to the expectations of your neighbors.

WildCat · 7th July 2011, 08:30 PM

Originally Posted by Tsukasa Buddha

It still seems bizarre that to me that you need to keep up your lawn to the expectations of your neighbors.

We live in a society!

/Costanza

Supernovae · 7th July 2011, 08:31 PM

I saw one of these not long ago where the city mowed some peoples lawns and sent then 4-800.00 mowing bills for small lots..

welshdean · 7th July 2011, 10:46 PM

Originally Posted by Supernovae

I saw one of these not long ago where the city mowed some peoples lawns and sent then 4-800.00 mowing bills for small lots..

That's because nobody can spend like a council. If you or I could do a job of work for let's say £1,000, the council could do it for far more.

BTW. Nobody and I mean nobody tells me what to do with my lawn, my garden, my property. Nobody.

geni · 7th July 2011, 10:54 PM

Originally Posted by welshdean

That's because nobody can spend like a council. If you or I could do a job of work for let's say £1,000, the council could do it for far more.

Actualy it's more that most councils are set up to mow big things like parks. One off garderns are expensive and of course it is in their interests to tag as many costs on the bill as possible.

Quote:

BTW. Nobody and I mean nobody tells me what to do with my lawn, my garden, my property. Nobody.

Depends on your local plannings laws. There are also issues with things like dumping chemical or radioactive waste on it.

geni · 7th July 2011, 10:58 PM

Originally Posted by Tsukasa Buddha

I guess if you lived in a fire-prone area it might matter, though that is not the case here. It still seems bizarre that to me that you need to keep up your lawn to the expectations of your neighbors.

A low quality lawn impacts house prices. For some reason those people who want to live in suburbia also want to live in a neighbourhood of smart houses with neatly trimmed lawns.

The Don · 8th July 2011, 01:45 AM

Originally Posted by welshdean

BTW. Nobody and I mean nobody tells me what to do with my lawn, my garden, my property. Nobody.

If that's your attitude I hope you get to experience the joy of living next door to someone who allows his own property to fall into such disrepair that the rats running free in his garden start to infest your house, or the fun that living next door to somebody who thinks their house is a breakers yard can bring, or the happiness that comes from somebody growing Leylandii on his property and blocking out your sunlight.

Part of living in a society is empathy for your fellow society members. You need to appreciate the impact your actions may have on your neighbours. I'm all for personal liberty, but when it starts to impact on other people I am less sympathetic.

JJM 777 · 8th July 2011, 01:55 AM

Originally Posted by Tsukasa Buddha

It still seems bizarre that to me that you need to keep up your lawn to the expectations of your neighbors.

or your beard
or shin hair
or armpit hair

Cut grass has its practical sides if you plan to actually walk on the field, but it is overrated as an esthetic element. The same boring green colour as far as the eye can see, I value more the diversity that follows when you let grow whatever will grow. At least I would like to see more uncut fields than I get to see around.

welshdean · 8th July 2011, 03:56 AM

Originally Posted by The Don

If that's your attitude I hope you get to experience the joy of living next door to someone who allows his own property to fall into such disrepair that the rats running free in his garden start to infest your house, or the fun that living next door to somebody who thinks their house is a breakers yard can bring, or the happiness that comes from somebody growing Leylandii on his property and blocking out your sunlight.

Part of living in a society is empathy for your fellow society members. You need to appreciate the impact your actions may have on your neighbours. I'm all for personal liberty, but when it starts to impact on other people I am less sympathetic.

Put plainly, my attitude is that my garden will be mowed when I want/can mow it. If it reaches 6" or maybe 10" then so be it. I own my property so I fully understand the necessity to maintain it and the grounds surrounding it. To have some jumped up, clipboard carrying, jobsworth come to my house to tell me that the lawn is now 5.2" and therefore needs cutting would stretch my levels of tolerance.

BTW, Do you not think that it's a bit of a stretch from allowing the lawn to be taller than 5" to having a breakers yard.

ETA: If he was breaking a Defender, I could do with a cheap fuel pump!

Resume · 8th July 2011, 04:45 AM

Lawns are a waste of time, energy and resources.

I say this having wasted all of the above on mine.

Modified · 8th July 2011, 04:52 AM

I was going to point out that five inches is ridiculous and that here the limit is twelve inches, but I couldn't find any way to word it without it sounding dirty.

Hokulele Mom · 8th July 2011, 05:56 AM

Originally Posted by Resume

Lawns are a waste of time, energy and resources.

I say this having wasted all of the above on mine.

As a certified Master Gardener, I agree. New Hampshire Cooperative Extension strongly suggests that as much grassy lawn be replaced with other ground covers as possible with plants such as ajuga, creeping jenny, etc. Fertilizing and mowing lawm is such a waste of energy (human and fossil) and contibuting to CO₂ emission and doing Nature no good. Stick to clover and other low maintenance ground cover and get to like them!

If a tall weedy grass in the vacant lot is a problem, mulch the lot or put down black fabric so nothing will grow there!

H Mom

WildCat · 8th July 2011, 06:55 AM

Originally Posted by welshdean

BTW. Nobody and I mean nobody tells me what to do with my lawn, my garden, my property. Nobody.

So you could leave a rusting old car on blocks on your front lawn for months on end and your town wouldn't object? You can run a retail business out of your house? Grow all the marijuana plants you like in your garden? Sell liquor from a stand on your front lawn? Leave piles of trash all over your property?

welshdean · 8th July 2011, 07:52 AM

Originally Posted by WildCat

So you could leave a rusting old car on blocks on your front lawn for months on end and your town wouldn't object? You can run a retail business out of your house? Grow all the marijuana plants you like in your garden? Sell liquor from a stand on your front lawn? Leave piles of trash all over your property?

Whenever I see a post begin with 'So', I immediately think of DOC, but anyways. All I said is that I am the master of my property, my garden and my lawn. However, I like to keep them nice and tidy as I have three kids under 10, not because some peak capped jobsworth told me to cut my lawn, paint my house etc. As long as there are no health hazards or eyesores, I can't see why someone else can't have a 4ft lawn.

In answer to your questions:
Rusty car - yes
Retail business - yes provided proper registrations/licenses are in order and commercial rates are paid.
Marijuana - Growing weed is illegal in the UK.
Liquor - See retail
Trash - yes, until it's designated a health hazard by the LA

The Don · 8th July 2011, 07:55 AM

Originally Posted by welshdean

Put plainly, my attitude is that my garden will be mowed when I want/can mow it. If it reaches 6" or maybe 10" then so be it. I own my property so I fully understand the necessity to maintain it and the grounds surrounding it. To have some jumped up, clipboard carrying, jobsworth come to my house to tell me that the lawn is now 5.2" and therefore needs cutting would stretch my levels of tolerance.

BTW, Do you not think that it's a bit of a stretch from allowing the lawn to be taller than 5" to having a breakers yard.

ETA: If he was breaking a Defender, I could do with a cheap fuel pump!

It's all a matter of degree. Some people consider a long lawn 1% of the way to breaking automobiles, others consider it 99% of the way there.

If you move into a neighbourhood and know that there's a residents' committee then it's up to you to fall in line with their rules. Now if a residents' committee is imposed upon you that may be a different matter entirely.

The value of homes is in part influenced by the quality of the neighbourhood in which they sit. A tidy, well groomed neighbourhood is a big draw for some people. If you let your garden run to rack and ruin you are expressing your freedom but you're also costing me £'s.

Where I live, most people keep their gardens in good shape (they are more or less obliged to keep their houses in good shape, the whole area is Grade II listed). Anyone who doesn't is tutted into submission. In fact, there have been interventions before now. I realise that this is despicably middle-class but the result is a comparatively happy neighbourhood (or at least one in which the simmering resentments are kept well under wraps).

WildCat · 8th July 2011, 07:57 AM

Originally Posted by welshdean

Whenever I see a post begin with 'So', I immediately think of DOC, but anyways. All I said is that I am the master of my property, my garden and my lawn. However, I like to keep them nice and tidy as I have three kids under 10, not because some peak capped jobsworth told me to cut my lawn, paint my house etc. As long as there are no health hazards or eyesores, I can't see why someone else can't have a 4ft lawn.

In answer to your questions:
Rusty car - yes
Retail business - yes provided proper registrations/licenses are in order and commercial rates are paid.
Marijuana - Growing weed is illegal in the UK.
Liquor - See retail
Trash - yes, until it's designated a health hazard by the LA

Then you must live in a rural area with no neighbors close by. You really have no zoning restrictions on retail businesses?

The Don · 8th July 2011, 07:57 AM

Originally Posted by Hokulele Mom

If a tall weedy grass in the vacant lot is a problem, mulch the lot or put down black fabric so nothing will grow there!

H Mom

Looking at my neighbour, the other alternative if you want a complete wasteland is to spend much time and £ trying to cultivate a really nice garden

Almo · 8th July 2011, 10:20 AM

Originally Posted by welshdean

All I said is that I am the master of my property, my garden and my lawn.

I hope you get to test this in court some day.

rwguinn · 8th July 2011, 10:28 AM

face it. Some folks don't give a damn about how their actions (or inactions) can affect other people.
That is why societies enact laws and rules.

Skeptic Ginger · 8th July 2011, 10:55 AM

Originally Posted by Tsukasa Buddha

I guess this is just my first time hearing about it, and I had assumed those housing associations would do it:

Linky.

I guess if you lived in a fire-prone area it might matter, though that is not the case here. It still seems bizarre that to me that you need to keep up your lawn to the expectations of your neighbors.

This is nothing new. The city I live in has a number of codes covering lawns visible from the street. You cannot park a car on a lawn here for any length of time. I can drive on my lawn but if I leave my car there overnight, I can get a ticket. And if your grass gets too long or unruly, the city can intervene.

Pantaz · 8th July 2011, 11:14 AM

Penn & Teller did a show covering this very subject -- including a guy that went to jail for a "brown" lawn ...
http://www.sho.com/site/ptbs/episode...=133987&ep=708

Hokulele Mom · 8th July 2011, 11:31 AM

Originally Posted by The Don

Looking at my neighbour, the other alternative if you want a complete wasteland is to spend much time and £ trying to cultivate a really nice garden

Which is my preference as a certified New Hampshire master gardener, but my problems is not having enough time to do the job as well as I want.

H Mom

fuelair · 8th July 2011, 12:07 PM

Originally Posted by Tsukasa Buddha

I guess this is just my first time hearing about it, and I had assumed those housing associations would do it:

Linky.

I guess if you lived in a fire-prone area it might matter, though that is not the case here. It still seems bizarre that to me that you need to keep up your lawn to the expectations of your neighbors.

Although it appears to be as you say - and even may be in some areas - there are any/all of the following to consider: Animal life - bugs do well in low grass. More bugs do way better in tall grass (even 4-10" tall), snakes do well in taller grass, rats and mice do well in taller grass. Plants: weeds and related do well when they are not constantly cut - they can easily overun both the noin-cut grass and move nicely (some types) to take over the normally mown lawn. A poorly/not cut lawn or three or thirty or... in the area you live WILL make it harder to sell your home if the need or desire arises - and wil have some effect on the price you get.

fuelair · 8th July 2011, 12:40 PM

That said, I tend to loathe and avoid any property attached to a homeowner's association as the people attracted to running for office for it seem to be likely to know all the words to "Deutschland, Deutschland uber alles!" and "Tomorrow Belongs to Me!"*.

* I know, you do not need to let me know!!

Dymanic · 8th July 2011, 05:18 PM

Vegetables? Oh my goodness, no. Simply isn't done, you know.

http://americanindependent.com/19259...mmunity-garden

welshdean · 8th July 2011, 05:35 PM

Originally Posted by WildCat

Then you must live in a rural area with no neighbors close by. You really have no zoning restrictions on retail businesses?

No to the first and yes to the second.

But, as I've said, I do take pride in my property, I simply wouldn't be told to do so.

welshdean · 8th July 2011, 05:36 PM

Originally Posted by Almo

I hope you get to test this in court some day.

I hope I don't.

welshdean · 8th July 2011, 05:43 PM

Originally Posted by The Don

<snip>
Where I live, most people keep their gardens in good shape (they are more or less obliged to keep their houses in good shape, the whole area is Grade II listed). Anyone who doesn't is tutted into submission. In fact, there have been interventions before now. I realise that this is despicably middle-class but the result is a comparatively happy neighbourhood (or at least one in which the simmering resentments are kept well under wraps).

Aside from the middle class conformity, I have witnessed the same 'tutting', and it is indeed shameful. As I've said, the grass may be ready for a trim, but if I'm not, then it ain't getting trimmed.

Why does this concept appear to be so hard to understand?

leftysergeant · 8th July 2011, 05:52 PM

Any law requiring a lawn in the first place is obscene, given the deteriorating situation with our aquifers. Lawns in Arizona should be illegal. I have to agree, though, that a real estate developer who gorws a weed lot should be smacked down with full force.

geni · 8th July 2011, 07:00 PM

Originally Posted by WildCat

Then you must live in a rural area with no neighbors close by. You really have no zoning restrictions on retail businesses?

You'd need planning consent to change a building's use.

The rest is less to do with living in a rural area and more that the UK hasn't really gone for homeowner associations (which would be difficult to implement since a low of newbuild is on rather small parcels of land.

ponderingturtle · 8th July 2011, 07:10 PM

Originally Posted by geni

You'd need planning consent to change a building's use.

The rest is less to do with living in a rural area and more that the UK hasn't really gone for homeowner associations (which would be difficult to implement since a low of newbuild is on rather small parcels of land.

Except that this does not seem to be just about home owners associations, but also town ordinances.

Modified · 8th July 2011, 07:46 PM

Originally Posted by Dymanic

Vegetables? Oh my goodness, no. Simply isn't done, you know.

http://americanindependent.com/19259...mmunity-garden

You can't get away with a front yard vegetable garden here either, so if you want to use your front yard to grow food it has to be fruit trees.

Resume · 8th July 2011, 08:53 PM

Originally Posted by Hokulele Mom

As a certified Master Gardener, I agree. New Hampshire Cooperative Extension strongly suggests that as much grassy lawn be replaced with other ground covers as possible with plants such as ajuga, creeping jenny, etc. Fertilizing and mowing lawm is such a waste of energy (human and fossil) and contibuting to CO₂ emission and doing Nature no good. Stick to clover and other low maintenance ground cover and get to like them!

If a tall weedy grass in the vacant lot is a problem, mulch the lot or put down black fabric so nothing will grow there!

H Mom

Clearly the sane thing would be to xeriscape and grow climate appropriate fruits, vegetables and herbs. Sometimes you have to be a hippie.

theprestige · 8th July 2011, 10:48 PM

Originally Posted by The Don

I realise that this is despicably middle-class

Not that despicable class that is neither poor nor rich! Whatever will they do next?!

Nosi · 9th July 2011, 02:38 AM

Originally Posted by leftysergeant

Any law requiring a lawn in the first place is obscene, given the deteriorating situation with our aquifers. Lawns in Arizona should be illegal. I have to agree, though, that a real estate developer who gorws a weed lot should be smacked down with full force.

No kidding. That is why we need sand gardens, and if you MUST have some grass, have a little grass "pool" in your rock garden. But eventually, some thing's going to give, and grass is going to be it. That and those hideous palm trees.

Nosi · 9th July 2011, 02:41 AM

Originally Posted by Modified

You can't get away with a front yard vegetable garden here either, so if you want to use your front yard to grow food it has to be fruit trees.

Or your topsy-turvey tomato pots. They grow all kinds of vines.

Dymanic · 9th July 2011, 10:44 AM

Originally Posted by Modified

You can't get away with a front yard vegetable garden here either, so if you want to use your front yard to grow food it has to be fruit trees.

Unless you're married to somebody important, I guess. Like the President of the United States, for instance. Personally, I can't think of very many things I'd be more willing to go to jail for.

Macgyver1968 · 9th July 2011, 11:09 AM

My friend's mom lives down the street from me...I help her out, from time to time, with yard work. Several years ago, she replaced her St. Augustine grass with native plants. It's very lovely..and drought resistant. I like it much better than just plain grass.

link

Kopji · 9th July 2011, 06:33 PM

Originally Posted by leftysergeant

Any law requiring a lawn in the first place is obscene, given the deteriorating situation with our aquifers. Lawns in Arizona should be illegal. I have to agree, though, that a real estate developer who gorws a weed lot should be smacked down with full force.

The lawns keep the sidewalk-washing-runoff from flowing into the swimming pools.

I get taxed in some way or another by how much land is covered on my property. So if I have a small house with a dirt driveway, little tax. Big house with big driveway, bigger tax. This leaves it to me to work things out. Unfortunately I have a lot of exposed rock, I think I get billed for that...

I have a little 10' square lawn, actually sort of a pentagon shape. We call management for water conservation 'Xeriscaping'.

Resume · 9th July 2011, 08:42 PM

Originally Posted by Nosi

That and those hideous palm trees.

Quite a few palm species are very drought tolerant and require little maintenance. If I recall correctly.

7th July 2011, 08:25 PM	#1
Tsukasa Buddha Other (please write in) Join Date: Sep 2006 Location: NeverLand Posts: 9,926	Lawn laws? I guess this is just my first time hearing about it, and I had assumed those housing associations would do it: Quote: The limits are set for aesthetic purposes, local officials said. Neighborhoods and business districts want to maintain a positive image, and tall grass works against that. “If you’re a neighbor, you want the grass to be mowed,” said Derik Morefield, deputy city manager for Woodstock. His city fields most complaints from lots owned by subdivision developers who seem to have forgotten about their vacant lots scattered amid new homes. An example, he said, is in the Apple Creek development on Dean Street south of Route 14, where about 1,000 homes were approved, but fewer than half have been built. In most towns, community development or building departments handle complaints about tall grass. When a violation is noticed, the municipality sends a letter to the last known owner of the property. Generally, that party is given seven to 10 days to respond and get the grass mowed. The next action varies depending on the municipality. “The approach that we take is a softer approach,” Woodstock’s Morefield said. “We send letters, give time to comply, and if we don’t hear back, generally we try again to contact them. “Ultimately, we can cite them for not having the grass mowed, and we can take them to municipal adjudication court, but that is the last resort,” he said. “We just want to see compliance. That is our No. 1 goal.” In Hebron, where the height limit is 5 inches, the village is less generous. “We give 10 days to contact us and another 10 days to correct the problem,” said Randall Funk, code enforcement, building inspector and public works superintendent. “If that doesn’t work, we mow and put a lien against the property,” he said. Linky. I guess if you lived in a fire-prone area it might matter, though that is not the case here. It still seems bizarre that to me that you need to keep up your lawn to the expectations of your neighbors.
	__________________ As cultural anthropologists have always said "human culture" = "human nature". You might as well put a fish on the moon to test how it "swims naturally" without the "influence of water". -Earthborn

7th July 2011, 10:46 PM	#4
welshdean 2012 6Nations Grand Slam -------CHAMPIONS------- Join Date: Jul 2002 Location: Spitting in Andrew Wakefields eye Posts: 1,398	Originally Posted by Supernovae I saw one of these not long ago where the city mowed some peoples lawns and sent then 4-800.00 mowing bills for small lots.. That's because nobody can spend like a council. If you or I could do a job of work for let's say £1,000, the council could do it for far more. BTW. Nobody and I mean nobody tells me what to do with my lawn, my garden, my property. Nobody.
	__________________ Poe's Law!!! im christian if we came from apes how come were not hairy and have a big mouth and did we end up looking like we do know and besides there isnt any serious proof of apes they showd a video saying an ape was wondering around in the forest that thing looked exactly like a costume that i had saw at a store know one ever cought an ape (spelling/punctuation by original author)

8th July 2011, 03:56 AM	#9
welshdean 2012 6Nations Grand Slam -------CHAMPIONS------- Join Date: Jul 2002 Location: Spitting in Andrew Wakefields eye Posts: 1,398	Originally Posted by The Don If that's your attitude I hope you get to experience the joy of living next door to someone who allows his own property to fall into such disrepair that the rats running free in his garden start to infest your house, or the fun that living next door to somebody who thinks their house is a breakers yard can bring, or the happiness that comes from somebody growing Leylandii on his property and blocking out your sunlight. Part of living in a society is empathy for your fellow society members. You need to appreciate the impact your actions may have on your neighbours. I'm all for personal liberty, but when it starts to impact on other people I am less sympathetic. Put plainly, my attitude is that my garden will be mowed when I want/can mow it. If it reaches 6" or maybe 10" then so be it. I own my property so I fully understand the necessity to maintain it and the grounds surrounding it. To have some jumped up, clipboard carrying, jobsworth come to my house to tell me that the lawn is now 5.2" and therefore needs cutting would stretch my levels of tolerance. BTW, Do you not think that it's a bit of a stretch from allowing the lawn to be taller than 5" to having a breakers yard. ETA: If he was breaking a Defender, I could do with a cheap fuel pump!
	__________________ Poe's Law!!! im christian if we came from apes how come were not hairy and have a big mouth and did we end up looking like we do know and besides there isnt any serious proof of apes they showd a video saying an ape was wondering around in the forest that thing looked exactly like a costume that i had saw at a store know one ever cought an ape (spelling/punctuation by original author) Last edited by welshdean; 8th July 2011 at 03:58 AM. Reason: See eta

8th July 2011, 04:45 AM	#10
Resume Philosopher Join Date: Apr 2010 Posts: 8,039	Lawns are a waste of time, energy and resources. I say this having wasted all of the above on mine.
Resume Philosopher Join Date: Apr 2010 Posts: 8,039

8th July 2011, 05:56 AM	#12
Hokulele Mom Critical Thinker Join Date: May 2008 Location: Far East of Eden Posts: 326	Originally Posted by Resume Lawns are a waste of time, energy and resources. I say this having wasted all of the above on mine. As a certified Master Gardener, I agree. New Hampshire Cooperative Extension strongly suggests that as much grassy lawn be replaced with other ground covers as possible with plants such as ajuga, creeping jenny, etc. Fertilizing and mowing lawm is such a waste of energy (human and fossil) and contibuting to CO₂ emission and doing Nature no good. Stick to clover and other low maintenance ground cover and get to like them! If a tall weedy grass in the vacant lot is a problem, mulch the lot or put down black fabric so nothing will grow there! H Mom
	Last edited by Hokulele Mom; 8th July 2011 at 05:59 AM. Reason: corrected typos

7th July 2011, 08:30 PM	#2
WildCat NWO Master Conspirator Join Date: Mar 2003 Location: Albany Park, Chicago Posts: 49,139	Originally Posted by Tsukasa Buddha It still seems bizarre that to me that you need to keep up your lawn to the expectations of your neighbors. We live in a society! /Costanza

7th July 2011, 08:31 PM	#3
Supernovae Thinker Join Date: Mar 2010 Location: PA Posts: 180	I saw one of these not long ago where the city mowed some peoples lawns and sent then 4-800.00 mowing bills for small lots..

7th July 2011, 10:54 PM	#5
geni Anti-homeopathy illuminati member Join Date: Oct 2003 Location: UK Posts: 26,578	Originally Posted by welshdean That's because nobody can spend like a council. If you or I could do a job of work for let's say £1,000, the council could do it for far more. Actualy it's more that most councils are set up to mow big things like parks. One off garderns are expensive and of course it is in their interests to tag as many costs on the bill as possible. Quote: BTW. Nobody and I mean nobody tells me what to do with my lawn, my garden, my property. Nobody. Depends on your local plannings laws. There are also issues with things like dumping chemical or radioactive waste on it.

7th July 2011, 10:58 PM	#6
geni Anti-homeopathy illuminati member Join Date: Oct 2003 Location: UK Posts: 26,578	Originally Posted by Tsukasa Buddha I guess if you lived in a fire-prone area it might matter, though that is not the case here. It still seems bizarre that to me that you need to keep up your lawn to the expectations of your neighbors. A low quality lawn impacts house prices. For some reason those people who want to live in suburbia also want to live in a neighbourhood of smart houses with neatly trimmed lawns.

8th July 2011, 01:45 AM	#7
The Don Philosopher Join Date: Nov 2002 Location: Cymru Posts: 8,265	Originally Posted by welshdean BTW. Nobody and I mean nobody tells me what to do with my lawn, my garden, my property. Nobody. If that's your attitude I hope you get to experience the joy of living next door to someone who allows his own property to fall into such disrepair that the rats running free in his garden start to infest your house, or the fun that living next door to somebody who thinks their house is a breakers yard can bring, or the happiness that comes from somebody growing Leylandii on his property and blocking out your sunlight. Part of living in a society is empathy for your fellow society members. You need to appreciate the impact your actions may have on your neighbours. I'm all for personal liberty, but when it starts to impact on other people I am less sympathetic.

8th July 2011, 01:55 AM	#8
JJM 777 Illuminator Join Date: Jun 2004 Location: Finland Posts: 3,175	Originally Posted by Tsukasa Buddha It still seems bizarre that to me that you need to keep up your lawn to the expectations of your neighbors. or your beard or shin hair or armpit hair Cut grass has its practical sides if you plan to actually walk on the field, but it is overrated as an esthetic element. The same boring green colour as far as the eye can see, I value more the diversity that follows when you let grow whatever will grow. At least I would like to see more uncut fields than I get to see around.

8th July 2011, 04:52 AM	#11
Modified Illuminator Join Date: Sep 2006 Location: SW Florida Posts: 4,062	I was going to point out that five inches is ridiculous and that here the limit is twelve inches, but I couldn't find any way to word it without it sounding dirty.

8th July 2011, 06:55 AM	#13
WildCat NWO Master Conspirator Join Date: Mar 2003 Location: Albany Park, Chicago Posts: 49,139	Originally Posted by welshdean BTW. Nobody and I mean nobody tells me what to do with my lawn, my garden, my property. Nobody. So you could leave a rusting old car on blocks on your front lawn for months on end and your town wouldn't object? You can run a retail business out of your house? Grow all the marijuana plants you like in your garden? Sell liquor from a stand on your front lawn? Leave piles of trash all over your property?

8th July 2011, 07:52 AM	#14
welshdean 2012 6Nations Grand Slam -------CHAMPIONS------- Join Date: Jul 2002 Location: Spitting in Andrew Wakefields eye Posts: 1,398	Originally Posted by WildCat So you could leave a rusting old car on blocks on your front lawn for months on end and your town wouldn't object? You can run a retail business out of your house? Grow all the marijuana plants you like in your garden? Sell liquor from a stand on your front lawn? Leave piles of trash all over your property? Whenever I see a post begin with 'So', I immediately think of DOC, but anyways. All I said is that I am the master of my property, my garden and my lawn. However, I like to keep them nice and tidy as I have three kids under 10, not because some peak capped jobsworth told me to cut my lawn, paint my house etc. As long as there are no health hazards or eyesores, I can't see why someone else can't have a 4ft lawn. In answer to your questions: Rusty car - yes Retail business - yes provided proper registrations/licenses are in order and commercial rates are paid. Marijuana - Growing weed is illegal in the UK. Liquor - See retail Trash - yes, until it's designated a health hazard by the LA
	__________________ Poe's Law!!! im christian if we came from apes how come were not hairy and have a big mouth and did we end up looking like we do know and besides there isnt any serious proof of apes they showd a video saying an ape was wondering around in the forest that thing looked exactly like a costume that i had saw at a store know one ever cought an ape (spelling/punctuation by original author)

8th July 2011, 07:55 AM	#15
The Don Philosopher Join Date: Nov 2002 Location: Cymru Posts: 8,265	Originally Posted by welshdean Put plainly, my attitude is that my garden will be mowed when I want/can mow it. If it reaches 6" or maybe 10" then so be it. I own my property so I fully understand the necessity to maintain it and the grounds surrounding it. To have some jumped up, clipboard carrying, jobsworth come to my house to tell me that the lawn is now 5.2" and therefore needs cutting would stretch my levels of tolerance. BTW, Do you not think that it's a bit of a stretch from allowing the lawn to be taller than 5" to having a breakers yard. ETA: If he was breaking a Defender, I could do with a cheap fuel pump! It's all a matter of degree. Some people consider a long lawn 1% of the way to breaking automobiles, others consider it 99% of the way there. If you move into a neighbourhood and know that there's a residents' committee then it's up to you to fall in line with their rules. Now if a residents' committee is imposed upon you that may be a different matter entirely. The value of homes is in part influenced by the quality of the neighbourhood in which they sit. A tidy, well groomed neighbourhood is a big draw for some people. If you let your garden run to rack and ruin you are expressing your freedom but you're also costing me £'s. Where I live, most people keep their gardens in good shape (they are more or less obliged to keep their houses in good shape, the whole area is Grade II listed). Anyone who doesn't is tutted into submission. In fact, there have been interventions before now. I realise that this is despicably middle-class but the result is a comparatively happy neighbourhood (or at least one in which the simmering resentments are kept well under wraps).

8th July 2011, 07:57 AM	#16
WildCat NWO Master Conspirator Join Date: Mar 2003 Location: Albany Park, Chicago Posts: 49,139	Originally Posted by welshdean Whenever I see a post begin with 'So', I immediately think of DOC, but anyways. All I said is that I am the master of my property, my garden and my lawn. However, I like to keep them nice and tidy as I have three kids under 10, not because some peak capped jobsworth told me to cut my lawn, paint my house etc. As long as there are no health hazards or eyesores, I can't see why someone else can't have a 4ft lawn. In answer to your questions: Rusty car - yes Retail business - yes provided proper registrations/licenses are in order and commercial rates are paid. Marijuana - Growing weed is illegal in the UK. Liquor - See retail Trash - yes, until it's designated a health hazard by the LA Then you must live in a rural area with no neighbors close by. You really have no zoning restrictions on retail businesses?

8th July 2011, 07:57 AM	#17
The Don Philosopher Join Date: Nov 2002 Location: Cymru Posts: 8,265	Originally Posted by Hokulele Mom If a tall weedy grass in the vacant lot is a problem, mulch the lot or put down black fabric so nothing will grow there! H Mom Looking at my neighbour, the other alternative if you want a complete wasteland is to spend much time and £ trying to cultivate a really nice garden

8th July 2011, 10:20 AM	#18
Almo Masterblazer Join Date: Aug 2005 Location: Montreal, Quebec Posts: 6,409	Originally Posted by welshdean All I said is that I am the master of my property, my garden and my lawn. I hope you get to test this in court some day.
	__________________ Almo! My Blog "No society ever collapsed because the poor had too much." — LeftySergeant "It may be that there is no body really at rest, to which the places and motions of others may be referred." –Issac Newton in the Principia

8th July 2011, 10:28 AM	#19
rwguinn Philosopher Join Date: Apr 2003 Location: 16 miles from 7 lakes Posts: 8,456	face it. Some folks don't give a damn about how their actions (or inactions) can affect other people. That is why societies enact laws and rules.
	__________________ "Political correctness is a doctrine,...,which holds forth the proposition that it is entirely possible to pick up a turd by the clean end." "I pointed out that his argument was wrong in every particular, but he rightfully took me to task for attacking only the weak points." Myriad http://forums.randi.org/showthread.php?postid=6853275#post6853275

8th July 2011, 10:55 AM	#20
Skeptic Ginger formerly skeptigirl Join Date: Feb 2005 Location: Shifting through paradigms Posts: 40,633	Originally Posted by Tsukasa Buddha I guess this is just my first time hearing about it, and I had assumed those housing associations would do it: Linky. I guess if you lived in a fire-prone area it might matter, though that is not the case here. It still seems bizarre that to me that you need to keep up your lawn to the expectations of your neighbors. This is nothing new. The city I live in has a number of codes covering lawns visible from the street. You cannot park a car on a lawn here for any length of time. I can drive on my lawn but if I leave my car there overnight, I can get a ticket. And if your grass gets too long or unruly, the city can intervene.
	__________________ (*Tired of continuing to hear the "Democrat Party" repeatedly I've decided to adopt the name, ~~Pubbie Party, Repubs~~ "Republics" and Republic Party in response.)

8th July 2011, 11:14 AM	#21
Pantaz Muse Join Date: Feb 2008 Location: Van Nuys, CA Posts: 898	Penn & Teller did a show covering this very subject -- including a guy that went to jail for a "brown" lawn ... http://www.sho.com/site/ptbs/episode...=133987&ep=708
	__________________ American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals http://www.aspca.org Support Jaime Oliver's Food Revolution

8th July 2011, 11:31 AM	#22
Hokulele Mom Critical Thinker Join Date: May 2008 Location: Far East of Eden Posts: 326	Originally Posted by The Don Looking at my neighbour, the other alternative if you want a complete wasteland is to spend much time and £ trying to cultivate a really nice garden Which is my preference as a certified New Hampshire master gardener, but my problems is not having enough time to do the job as well as I want. H Mom

8th July 2011, 12:07 PM	#23
fuelair Cythraul Enfys Join Date: May 2006 Posts: 28,961	Originally Posted by Tsukasa Buddha I guess this is just my first time hearing about it, and I had assumed those housing associations would do it: Linky. I guess if you lived in a fire-prone area it might matter, though that is not the case here. It still seems bizarre that to me that you need to keep up your lawn to the expectations of your neighbors. Although it appears to be as you say - and even may be in some areas - there are any/all of the following to consider: Animal life - bugs do well in low grass. More bugs do way better in tall grass (even 4-10" tall), snakes do well in taller grass, rats and mice do well in taller grass. Plants: weeds and related do well when they are not constantly cut - they can easily overun both the noin-cut grass and move nicely (some types) to take over the normally mown lawn. A poorly/not cut lawn or three or thirty or... in the area you live WILL make it harder to sell your home if the need or desire arises - and wil have some effect on the price you get.
fuelair Cythraul Enfys Join Date: May 2006 Posts: 28,961	__________________ There is no problem so great that it cannot be fixed by small explosives carefully placed. Wash this space! We fight for the Lady Babylon!!!

8th July 2011, 12:40 PM	#24
fuelair Cythraul Enfys Join Date: May 2006 Posts: 28,961	That said, I tend to loathe and avoid any property attached to a homeowner's association as the people attracted to running for office for it seem to be likely to know all the words to "Deutschland, Deutschland uber alles!" and "Tomorrow Belongs to Me!". I know, you do not need to let me know!!
fuelair Cythraul Enfys Join Date: May 2006 Posts: 28,961	__________________ There is no problem so great that it cannot be fixed by small explosives carefully placed. Wash this space! We fight for the Lady Babylon!!!

8th July 2011, 05:18 PM	#25
Dymanic Illuminator Join Date: Sep 2002 Posts: 4,738	Vegetables? Oh my goodness, no. Simply isn't done, you know. http://americanindependent.com/19259...mmunity-garden
Dymanic Illuminator Join Date: Sep 2002 Posts: 4,738

8th July 2011, 05:35 PM	#26
welshdean 2012 6Nations Grand Slam -------CHAMPIONS------- Join Date: Jul 2002 Location: Spitting in Andrew Wakefields eye Posts: 1,398	Originally Posted by WildCat Then you must live in a rural area with no neighbors close by. You really have no zoning restrictions on retail businesses? No to the first and yes to the second. But, as I've said, I do take pride in my property, I simply wouldn't be told to do so.
	__________________ Poe's Law!!! im christian if we came from apes how come were not hairy and have a big mouth and did we end up looking like we do know and besides there isnt any serious proof of apes they showd a video saying an ape was wondering around in the forest that thing looked exactly like a costume that i had saw at a store know one ever cought an ape (spelling/punctuation by original author)

8th July 2011, 05:36 PM	#27
welshdean 2012 6Nations Grand Slam -------CHAMPIONS------- Join Date: Jul 2002 Location: Spitting in Andrew Wakefields eye Posts: 1,398	Originally Posted by Almo I hope you get to test this in court some day. I hope I don't.
	__________________ Poe's Law!!! im christian if we came from apes how come were not hairy and have a big mouth and did we end up looking like we do know and besides there isnt any serious proof of apes they showd a video saying an ape was wondering around in the forest that thing looked exactly like a costume that i had saw at a store know one ever cought an ape (spelling/punctuation by original author)

8th July 2011, 05:43 PM	#28
welshdean 2012 6Nations Grand Slam -------CHAMPIONS------- Join Date: Jul 2002 Location: Spitting in Andrew Wakefields eye Posts: 1,398	Originally Posted by The Don <snip> Where I live, most people keep their gardens in good shape (they are more or less obliged to keep their houses in good shape, the whole area is Grade II listed). Anyone who doesn't is tutted into submission. In fact, there have been interventions before now. I realise that this is despicably middle-class but the result is a comparatively happy neighbourhood (or at least one in which the simmering resentments are kept well under wraps). Aside from the middle class conformity, I have witnessed the same 'tutting', and it is indeed shameful. As I've said, the grass may be ready for a trim, but if I'm not, then it ain't getting trimmed. Why does this concept appear to be so hard to understand?
	__________________ Poe's Law!!! im christian if we came from apes how come were not hairy and have a big mouth and did we end up looking like we do know and besides there isnt any serious proof of apes they showd a video saying an ape was wondering around in the forest that thing looked exactly like a costume that i had saw at a store know one ever cought an ape (spelling/punctuation by original author)

8th July 2011, 05:52 PM	#29
leftysergeant Penultimate Amazing Join Date: Jul 2007 Location: Spanaway WA Posts: 18,613	Any law requiring a lawn in the first place is obscene, given the deteriorating situation with our aquifers. Lawns in Arizona should be illegal. I have to agree, though, that a real estate developer who gorws a weed lot should be smacked down with full force.
	__________________ No civilization ever collapsed because the poor had too much to eat.

8th July 2011, 07:00 PM	#30
geni Anti-homeopathy illuminati member Join Date: Oct 2003 Location: UK Posts: 26,578	Originally Posted by WildCat Then you must live in a rural area with no neighbors close by. You really have no zoning restrictions on retail businesses? You'd need planning consent to change a building's use. The rest is less to do with living in a rural area and more that the UK hasn't really gone for homeowner associations (which would be difficult to implement since a low of newbuild is on rather small parcels of land.

8th July 2011, 07:10 PM	#31
ponderingturtle Orthogonal Vector Join Date: Jul 2006 Location: Tarrytown, NY Posts: 26,434	Originally Posted by geni You'd need planning consent to change a building's use. The rest is less to do with living in a rural area and more that the UK hasn't really gone for homeowner associations (which would be difficult to implement since a low of newbuild is on rather small parcels of land. Except that this does not seem to be just about home owners associations, but also town ordinances.
	__________________ Sufficiently advanced Woo is indistinguishable from Parody "There shall be no poofing in science" Paul C. Anagnostopoulos Force ***** on reasons back" Ben Franklin

8th July 2011, 07:46 PM	#32
Modified Illuminator Join Date: Sep 2006 Location: SW Florida Posts: 4,062	Originally Posted by Dymanic Vegetables? Oh my goodness, no. Simply isn't done, you know. http://americanindependent.com/19259...mmunity-garden You can't get away with a front yard vegetable garden here either, so if you want to use your front yard to grow food it has to be fruit trees.

8th July 2011, 08:53 PM	#33
Resume Philosopher Join Date: Apr 2010 Posts: 8,039	Originally Posted by Hokulele Mom As a certified Master Gardener, I agree. New Hampshire Cooperative Extension strongly suggests that as much grassy lawn be replaced with other ground covers as possible with plants such as ajuga, creeping jenny, etc. Fertilizing and mowing lawm is such a waste of energy (human and fossil) and contibuting to CO₂ emission and doing Nature no good. Stick to clover and other low maintenance ground cover and get to like them! If a tall weedy grass in the vacant lot is a problem, mulch the lot or put down black fabric so nothing will grow there! H Mom Clearly the sane thing would be to xeriscape and grow climate appropriate fruits, vegetables and herbs. Sometimes you have to be a hippie.
Resume Philosopher Join Date: Apr 2010 Posts: 8,039

8th July 2011, 10:48 PM	#34
theprestige Philosopher Join Date: Aug 2007 Posts: 8,671	Originally Posted by The Don I realise that this is despicably middle-class Not that despicable class that is neither poor nor rich! Whatever will they do next?!
theprestige Philosopher Join Date: Aug 2007 Posts: 8,671

9th July 2011, 02:38 AM	#35
Nosi Master Poster Join Date: Jun 2009 Posts: 2,731	Originally Posted by leftysergeant Any law requiring a lawn in the first place is obscene, given the deteriorating situation with our aquifers. Lawns in Arizona should be illegal. I have to agree, though, that a real estate developer who gorws a weed lot should be smacked down with full force. No kidding. That is why we need sand gardens, and if you MUST have some grass, have a little grass "pool" in your rock garden. But eventually, some thing's going to give, and grass is going to be it. That and those hideous palm trees.
Nosi Master Poster Join Date: Jun 2009 Posts: 2,731	__________________ __________ Hiding from the