Nuisance Codes
The purpose of Nuisance Codes
The purpose
of Nuisance Codes is to protect the health, safety and welfare of all
the persons within a certain area. A nuisance is commonly described as
any article, thing or act within the control of person(s) which is
caused, kept, maintained or permitted to injure, inconvenience or annoy
the general public. By regulating nuisances we are able to enhance the
quality of the neighborhoods, maintain or increase property values,
decrease crime, reduce insurance rates and help maintain the standards
the citizens have come to expect.
Commonly found Nuisance Violations
Junk, Trash
and Debris:
Junk, trash and debris is probably the most commonly found of all the
nuisance codes. It is a visual nuisance along with a health violation
in many cases. Excess junk, such as garbage can attract an array of
insects and vermin. Old worn tires, furniture, appliances and lumber
are a few commonly seen types of debris. A basic rule to what is
considered junk, trash or debris is that if it is supposed to be inside
and is not, then it’s possibly considered debris.
Brush Piles: Just as junk, trash and debris, brush piles are
not only a visual nuisance but also a health related nuisance. Brush
piles tend to harbor many different types of vermin such as, but not
limited to rats, opossums, and raccoons.
Undesirable Vegetation: Undesirable vegetation is commonly
referred to as "weeds". A weed is any vegetation upon any commercially
or residentially zoned parcels of land exceeding fifteen (15) inches in
height, generally referred to as wild or undesirable plants. Weeds are
mainly a problem from April, during the rainy season, until late
September to early October.
Solid Waste Containers: For residential purposes, a solid waste
container should not exceed a maximum capacity of thirty-five (35)
gallons nor less than twenty (20) gallons. All containers should be
leak-proof, waterproof and fitted with a tight-fitting lid. The
containers should have handles, bails or other suitable lifting devices.
The containers should be lightweight and sturdy and made from
galvanized metal, rubber, fiberglass, plastic or any other approved
material. Containers may be set at the curb no more than twelve (12)
hours before pick up time and removed no more than twelve (12) hours
after it has been collected. A minimum of one (1) collection is
required per week.
Inoperable and Unlicensed Vehicles:
There are several things that may deem a vehicle inoperable. Some of
the common examples are wrecked, disabled, or damaged vehicles, flat
tire(s) for more than five (5) days, absence of parts making it unlawful
to legally operate on public streets, on jacks or blocks for more than
five (5) days and vehicles without proper state license plates for a
period of thirty (30) days or more.
Parking: Vehicles are not allowed to be parked on the
grass unless they are in the side and/or backyards. If your vehicle is
parked in the front of your property it must be on a hard surface such
as concrete, asphalt or gravel. Note: Putting patio blocks under each
wheel of your vehicle is not considered the same as a hard surface.
Process of Abatement
The Codes Inspector will attempt to contact the resident when a
code violation is found. Contact can be achieved in a number of ways
such as personal contact, door notices, mail or phone. A ten (10) day
compliance period is given for the abatement of all nuisance violations.
If a certain amount of effort is shown an extension may be given at the
discretion of the Code Inspector. By working with the citizens a better
working rapport is established and may aid in future encounters.
Public Works
711 S. Main Street
Grain Valley, MO 64029
Phone - 816/847-6220
Fax - 816/847-6206
