The City of Fort Wayne’s Tall Grass/Weed Program begins today, May 19, 2025.
City of Fort Wayne news release:
Tall Grass/Weed Program begins today
Fort Wayne, Indiana (May 19, 2025) – The City of Fort Wayne’s Tall Grass/Weed Program begins today, May 19. Neighborhood Code Compliance is responsible for enforcing the program, which requires weeds or grass to be no taller than nine inches on residential and commercial properties with the City limits.
The public can report possible violations by calling 311 or 260-427-8311, or by submitting information online. Individuals reporting a possible violation must provide the property’s street address.
“Before reporting a possible violation, we encourage residents to check with their neighbors to see if there is a reason why the grass has not been mowed and try to resolve the concern without involving the City,” said Chris Blauvelt, Neighborhood Code Compliance director. “However, when those efforts aren’t successful, the Tall Grass/Weed Program can help maintain the safety, cleanliness and property values in our neighborhoods.”
Neighborhood Code Compliance employs eight seasonal, part-time inspectors who respond to concerns from the public but also act proactively to identify high grass and weeds, particularly along high-traffic corridors.
When inspectors determine there is a violation, they take date-stamped electronic photos and post a placard on the cited property. As a courtesy, an abate notice is then mailed to the owner of record, providing five days to correct the violation. After this period, the City’s mowing contractors inspect the property for compliance. If the property is still in violation, the contractors mow the grass and take date-stamped before- and-after photos. The owner will then be charged for the mowing; if the invoice is not paid within 30 days, a lien will be placed on the property.
The City of Fort Wayne’s Community Development Division works to enhance economic opportunity, build strong neighborhoods and ensure a dynamic framework for growth and development. The Division’s departments include Neighborhood Code Compliance, Neighborhoods, Office of Housing and Neighborhood Services, Redevelopment/Economic Development, and Planning and Policy.