Minneapolis

Apple Valley Cracks Down on Overgrown Lawns Under Minnesota Noxious Weed Law

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Published on April 15, 2024
Apple Valley Cracks Down on Overgrown Lawns Under Minnesota Noxious Weed LawSource: Unsplash/Yan Liu

Apple Valley's lawn aficionados better keep their grass trim, or they'll be finding themselves on the wrong side of the law. It turns out those yellow-flecked lawns peppered with dandelions aren't a problem, but let them grow over 8 inches, and you've got yourself a violation. According to information issued by the City of Apple Valley, the city is cracking down on overgrown blades and rogue vegetation.

The fight against unkempt yards isn't just about neighborhood aesthetics. Noxious weeds can be a statewide menace. With 59 state-listed plants deemed a threat, Minnesota isn't taking the issue lying down. These botanical bad guys fall into categories that range from "Prohibited (Eradicate)" to "Specially Regulated," as reported by the MN Department of Transportation.

Homeowners need to kill both the roots and shoots of plants on the eradicate list, while just stopping the spread is enough for those on the control list. Now, don't even think about transporting or selling restricted noxious weeds without a permit – that's a big no-no in the Gopher State. On the flip side, specially regulated plants have their own set of rules, so better read up before you dig in.

If you're living in Apple Valley, mark your calendars or set a reminder because the grass police are on patrol. Any non-garden vegetation towering over the 8-inch mark is asking for a trim. This isn't just some arbitrary rule – all of this is in accordance with the Minnesota Noxious Weed Law. The point is clear: manage your greenery, or the city might do it for you.