OAKLAND CITY, IN (WFIE) -
Oakland City wants to implement a new grass clipping ordinance.
It would mean residents who are caught blowing or sweeping their grass clippings into the road, would be fined.
It's probably not a good day to be out mowing the grass because it is so dry, but next time you do, be careful where you blow those grass clipping. If you blow them in the street, you could face $100 fine.
"We've been thinking about this for a while. Several cities around have an ordinance where you are not allowed to throw your grass clippings into the street," said Mark Broshears on Oakland City's Council at Large.
The fine for blown grass clippings would be the same as any other city nuisance, $100. The purpose of such a law is to keep the storm drains clear of debris.
"We would like to keep them as clean as possible. That helps with flooding in town," Broshears said.
Cheryl Morgan is used to her street flooding. She lives just a few feet away from a storm drain.
"So anytime it gets, grass or twigs or anything in there, I clear it out." Morgan said. "The neighbor guy and I keep an eye on these two corners."
Broshears says although it won't ruin the almost complete storm sewer project it does take a lot of man power to clear a clogged drain.
"A lot of times they have to even be jetted out with a water jet just to get them cleaned out again," Broshears said.
City council plans to adopt that grass clipping ordinance in about two weeks.
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