Show All Answers

1. How tall must grass and weeds be before it becomes a public nuisance?

The minimum height for public nuisance grass is 12 inches. This height is determined by state law. Weeds, Grass, and Trash

2. How are public nuisance codes enforced?

In most cases, violators are given written and verbal information that a public nuisance exists on their property and are provided with a time frame (10 days) to correct the issue. If the issue is not corrected, a process begins that allows the city to correct the issue and assess costs as a tax lien on the property. Enforcement and abatement

3. How long does it take the city to abate a public nuisance?

There is a process that the city must follow to comply with state law before it can abate a public nuisance. This provides the property owner a certain period of time to correct the problem or appeal the public nuisance determination. In most cases, the process takes about two weeks from the time a public nuisance is identified or reported to the time it can be abated. Abatement demolition of dilapidated buildings is a separate process under state law that can take several months to accomplish. Enforcement and abatement

4. Do I have to mow the yard and maintain trees and shrubs next to the street?

City ordinance requires property owners to maintain all vegetation from the street curb or pavement edge (easement) – even though it is a part of the public right-of-way. The right-of-way area between the street and a private property line is viewed as an extension of the property available for use by the public. Trees and shrubs need to be pruned so they do not obstruct traffic or damage vehicles.

5. What is a trash public nuisance?

By state law and city ordinance, items that are dumped, improperly disposed of or otherwise uncared for can be considered a trash public nuisance. The most common types of trash public nuisances include piles of discarded items, tree limbs and brush, furniture, lumber and dead appliances located anywhere on the property. Weeds, Grass, and Trash

6. Why can’t I leave my sofa or recliner or vehicle seat on the porch or patio?

Furniture designed for indoor use should never be kept outdoors – even on a covered porch or patio. In addition to inevitable contact with moisture, such items are a haven for rodents, insects and other pests.

7. How can I dispose of bulky trash items?

The City’s Transfer Solid Waste station accepts debris based on weight. Notices of the free disposal days are included in city utility bills and are only available for residents who receive city refuse collection. An extra pickup of bulky items is available from the city’s refuse service for an additional fee charged to a customer’s utility bill.

8. What if my car doesn’t run?

Inoperable vehicles must be stored in an enclosed area such as a garage with a door and completely out of public view, if they remain upon private property in excess of 10 days. Typically, inoperable vehicles, those that cannot be legally driven on public streets, have parts missing or are defective. Inoperable vehicles remaining in open view after 10 days are subject to tow. Property owners or tenants may also receive a Municipal Court citation.

9. What if my landlord won’t fix something in my home?

The Oklahoma Residential Landlord Tenant Act sets out responsibilities for both landlords and tenants. Such responsibilities are also outlined in lease agreements. As such, they are considered civil matters between a landlord and tenant and are not regarded as public nuisances. Bug infestations are also viewed in this manner, and it is up to the tenant or landlord to arrange for extermination.