Corbin poised to crack down on high grass

Corbin leaders say municipal workers will begin this week tackling over 30 overgrown and unsightly lawns in the city limits, and warn that the bill to property owners will be a little steeper this year.

Corbin Code Enforcement Officer Frank Burke said Tuesday that high grass on any property is in violation of the city’s ordinances and will likely carry with it a fine of no less than $100 plus any costs the city incurs for mowing. The problem is an annual one, but has become more pronounced in recent weeks because of frequent rains.

"Most of it is with vacant homes owned by people who live out of town," Burke said. "They just think, for some reason, they don’t have to take care of the property. It’s out of sight, out of mind I guess."

Burke said he has a long list of properties that are out of compliance with the law. Property owners will be issued a citation and can be fined up to $500 if they fail to respond. If city crews are forced to mow the yard due to inaction, the cost will be increased.

Corbin Mayor Willard McBurney said a crew from the city’s Public Works Department would be tasked this year with mowing property that is out of compliance. He said because of the increased cost of fuel and other factors, that it will likely cost property owners around $65 for a normal size yard, and more for large properties.

"We are going to get a jump on it early this year," McBurney said. "Any cost will be attached as a lien to the property. It is going to cost more now so I think it is something people need to think about. People have a responsibility to keep their property up to code."

Burke said he believes the crew will start mowing yards today and will continue as long as it does not rain. Property owners can avoid steep fees by mowing immediately and contacting the Code Enforcement Office at 523-6507.