FORT WAYNE, IND. (WOWO) INDIANAPOLIS, IND. (WOWO) The City of Fort Wayne’s Tall Grass/Weed Program begins Monday, May 18, as Neighborhood Code Compliance starts seasonal enforcement of grass and weed standards across the city.

The Lead Off

• Fort Wayne’s Tall Grass/Weed Program begins May 18, enforcing a nine-inch grass height limit
• Residents can report violations through 311, phone, or online submissions
• Properties found in violation may be mowed by the city and billed to the owner

Grass and weed rules now in effect

City officials say the program requires grass and weeds on residential and commercial properties within Fort Wayne city limits to be maintained at nine inches or shorter.

Neighborhood Code Compliance is responsible for enforcing the ordinance, which runs through the growing season.

Residents who believe a property is in violation can report concerns by calling 311 or 260-427-8311, or by submitting a complaint through the city’s online portal. Officials note that an exact street address is required for all reports.

Officials encourage neighbor-to-neighbor resolution

Neighborhood Code Compliance Director Chris Blauvelt said residents are encouraged to address concerns directly with neighbors when possible before submitting formal complaints.

“We always encourage residents to talk with their neighbors first and see if there is a way to resolve the issue without reporting it,” Blauvelt said. “When that isn’t successful, the Tall Grass/Weed Program helps ensure our neighborhoods remain safe, clean, and well cared for.”

Inspection and enforcement process

The city says eight seasonal, part-time inspectors will respond to complaints and also conduct proactive checks, particularly along high-traffic corridors.

When a violation is identified, inspectors document the property with date-stamped photos and place a notice on-site. A written notice is then mailed to the property owner, giving five days to correct the issue.

If the violation is not addressed within that timeframe, city contractors may mow the property and document before-and-after conditions.

Property owners are then billed for the service. If payment is not made within 30 days, the city may place a lien on the property.

Program information and public resources

City officials say additional details about the program, including frequently asked questions, are available through the city’s engagement website.

The Tall Grass/Weed Program remains in effect during the growing season as part of routine code enforcement efforts.

The Takeaway

• Fort Wayne has launched its seasonal Tall Grass/Weed Program, enforcing a city ordinance that requires grass and weeds to remain under nine inches on residential and commercial properties.
• Residents are encouraged to report violations through 311 or online services, though city officials say neighbors should first attempt to resolve issues directly when possible.
• If properties remain out of compliance after notice and a five-day correction period, the city may mow the property and bill the owner, with unpaid costs potentially resulting in a lien.