CHAPTER 551

Weeds Landscape Management

551.01
Purpose and definitions.
551.02
Periodic cutting required.
551.03
Notice to cut; Notice of violation.
551.04
Failure to comply with notice.
551.05
Collection of costs.
551.06
Designation of nature areas; appeals.
551.07
Managed natural landscape areas.
551.99
Penalty.
CROSS REFERENCES
Notice to cut noxious weeds - see ORC 731.51 et seq.
Destruction of weeds - see ORC 971.33 et seq.
Removal of weeds - see HSG. 1701.01 A 2, 1701.02 B.

551.01 PURPOSE AND DEFINITIONS

(a)Purpose. The purpose of this chapter is to encourage the use of vegetation throughout the City to maximize ecological and aesthetic benefits while respecting existing community values regarding landscaping to include well-maintained yards, preservation of sight lines, compatibility with existing structures, and public safety. Ecological benefits of “managed natural landscapes” include enhancement of pollinator support habitat, stormwater management, carbon sequestration, erosion control, and preservation of biodiversity.

(b)Definitions. As used in this chapter, the following definitions shall apply:

“Managed or maintained” means regularly cultivated, weeded, pruned, trimmed, tied, and/or managed so as to avoid the appearance of neglect, overgrowth, untidiness, or disease/decay, and in a manner that is not inconsistent with customary and prevailing levels of yard maintenance within the subject property’s property maintenance district, as defined in Section 108 of the Oakwood Property Maintenance Code. For purposes of this definition, appearance shall be determined by the Building Commissioner or his/her designee, subject to appeal to the Property Maintenance Board under applicable procedures set forth in the Oakwood Property Maintenance Code.

“Managed natural landscape area” means a planned, intentional, and managed or maintained planting of native or non-native grasses, wildflowers, ferns, sedges, shrubs, or trees, including but not limited to rain gardens, butterfly gardens, and ornamental plants.

“Noxious weed” means any plant that has been identified as being harmful to the local natural environment and included in a list promulgated by the City Manager or his or her designee; or as listed in Sections 901:5-30 or 901:5-37 of the Ohio Administrative Code,