Tall Grass Violations High for 2013

A lot of Kent property owners aren't mowing their grass this year.

The Kent Community Development Department has sent 55 notice letters as of June to property owners this year for violating the city's tall grass and weeds ordinance, which is chapter 551 of the city’s codified ordinances.

Troy Loomis, Kent’s code enforcement officer,  said eight property owners have been fined by the city and seven of those fined were for tall grass violations.

“It’s really been busy,” Loomis said.

Among the properties fined were the house at 615 Crain Ave. that the city is looking to demolish and the former DuBois book store at the corner of East Main Street and Luther Avenue.

Fines for such violations start at $100 and escalate to $200 if not paid within 30 days. The fines increase further to $300 if not paid within 60 days.

Loomis said that the city mows properties that are left uncut and that are targeted for fines. The cost of the mow can vary from $23 to $40 and is tacked on to the fine.