The next time that you strap your backpack on or plug in your hand-held blower within the city limits of Grenada, you better think twice where you blow your debris.
Over the last several months, the City Council has focused on curb appeal, however, city officials are reminding residents that blowing grass clippings into the street is not only discouraged, but illegal under a local ordinance aimed at protecting public safety and the environment.
The ordinance, enforced by the city’s Code Enforcement Department, prohibits the act of directing grass clippings and other yard debris onto public streets. Officials say the rule is rooted in concerns about road safety, environmental protection and community cleanliness.
Grass clippings, particularly when wet, can create a slick layer on roadways. This poses a significant risk to motorists, especially those on motorcycles or bicycles, who may lose traction and control.
Beyond safety, the ordinance addresses environmental consequences. When grass clippings are blown into the street, they often wash into storm drains, clogging the city’s drainage system. This can lead to localized flooding during heavy rains and increase the risk of property damage. The clippings can also carry fertilizers, pesticides and other pollutants into nearby waterways, threatening local ecosystems.
City officials also classify the accumulation of grass clippings in the street as a public nuisance. Piles of debris can mar the appearance of neighborhoods and contribute to broader sanitation issues.
Violators of the ordinance face a range of penalties. While the city’s code does not specify a unique fine for grass blowing, it states that violations of any city ordinance can result in fines ranging from $50 to $1,000. In some cases, offenders may face up to 90 days in jail, or both a fine and imprisonment. Court costs may also be assessed, and each day a violation continues is considered a separate offense, potentially multiplying the penalties
According to officials, enforcement typically begins with a warning or corrective notice, giving the property owner a chance to comply. However, repeated or egregious violations can escalate to formal citations and court action. The city’s Code Enforcement Department, located at 108 S. Main St., is responsible for investigating complaints and issuing citations as needed
Grenada’s ordinance reflects a growing trend among municipalities to address the impacts of yard waste on public infrastructure and the environment. City leaders urge residents to direct grass clippings back onto their lawns or collect them for proper disposal, a practice that also returns nutrients to the soil.
For residents with questions about the ordinance or its enforcement, the Code Enforcement Department encourages direct contact at (662) 226-8820.
