City ordinance violated when grass deposited on streets

During Monday night’s Commission meeting, Fulton City Manager Mike Gunn reminded the city’s residents, while mowing season will soon come to an end, to deposit grass clippings or yard waste on any city street is in violation of Ordinance 40-64, and subject to code enforcement violations, which could result in fines.

Gunn stated potential hazards associated with the violation of depositing grass and yard clippings on streets, could include endangering motorcyclists and bicyclists, noting studies suggest grass and clippings may be up to 85% water, creating a slick roadway surface.

Gunn reported the National Transportation and Safety Association estimates that 20% of motorcycle accidents are caused by grass clippings on roadways.

“The stormwater sewer system may become clogged, with grass clippings that go down storm drains, and then collect into a large pile. This prohibits the free flow of rainwater and could cause the system to back up, flooding city streets,” Gunn said.

“Clippings may carry fertilizers and pesticides, which could be carried into the creeks and streams, posing issues for wildlife and promoting growth of harmful algae, a potential hazard to people using those creeks and streams,” Gunn added.