By BECKY KISER
Hays Post

The recent pattern of small amounts of regular spring rains is welcome during the drought that has put the city of Hays 12 inches behind normal in average rainfall.

The showers may be welcome; the resulting weeds and overgrown lawns are not.

If property owners let the situation get out of control, the city will step in.

Section 26 of the Hays Municipal Code prohibits nuisances such as weeds or grass taller than 12 inches in height, according to John Braun, Assistant Public Works Director.

“The area of (property owner) responsibility extends to the center of the street in front or side yard, and to the center of the alley in the rear,” he explained.

“Typically, you won’t find weeds growing in the street but sometimes they do grow around the curb and sidewalk and especially along the alley.

“Property owners who do not keep control of tall grass and weeds will be sent a letter notifying them of the violation with 10 days to correct it. After that, the city will hire a contractor to abate the nuisance and charge the costs to the responsible property owner,” Braun said.

“Any legal over-the-counter, purchased at the hardware store herbicides can be sprayed in the sidewalk cracks, along the curb and alley, around the water main cover,” Braun added.

“As long as you use the amount specified and apply it according to label directions, you don’t have to worry about runoff (into the city water system.”)

Any questions about nuisance issues should be directed to the Public Works Department at (785) 628-7350.