The city of Columbus is clarifying that property owners are responsible for knocking down weeds and high grass along the city streets bordering their property. The city is considering changes to its weed ordinance.

Under the weed ordinance, the city has the authority to send out notices to residents with overgrown yards and if the yard is not cleaned up, the city will do the work and hit the homeowner with the bill. If it isn’t paid, it becomes a lien on the property owner’s deed. Columbus City Council gave its first approval to some changes to in definitions in the weed ordinance.

Bryan Burton, head of the city’s public works department, explains the changes proposed for the weed ordinance.

Burton says  that the area inside of city right-of-way has always been the property owners’ responsibility but changes to the city’s weed ordinance make it more clear.

He explains what constitutes the right of way.

The changes will also make an exception for the few wooded areas within city limits, where residents are not expected to maintain weed control.

The council will consider giving its final approval at its next meeting May 16th..