Seems like weeds (Read: overgrown vegetation!) are taking over Denver’s walkways these days.  Denver code says we homeowners and businesses are responsible to keep overgrown vegetation (Weeds!) off sidewalks, and that includes growth between curbs and sidewalks too. Plant growth may not extend onto adjacent sidewalks, streets or alleys, or block visibility at street corners.

Overgrown vegetation not only looks unsightly but it also draws litter, destructive insects,vermin and makes walkways more difficult to navigate.  In one fairly upscale neighborhood, evidence of at least one or two homeless campers was found in the overgrown weeds along fence lines. Overgrown weeds between curbs and sidewalks also can deteriorate sidewalk integrity over time.  Keep Denver Beautiful tells us that weeds beget litter; litter begets graffiti and graffiti begets crime.  All this for want of a weed whacker!

Reporting overgrowth may be done via 311 [Call 311 or email 311@denvergov.org]. Neighborhood inspectors (NIS) will cite the homeowner or business and give them 10 days to respond. If this problem persists without action, citations can be issued with beginning fines of $150.

Per a report by FOX 31 News: “For those who are unable to cut their weeds, local volunteer organizations may be able to help. City inspectors can provide contact information for those resources,” Community Planning and Development spokeswoman Andrea Burns says. “They will also send out abatement crews from the city to cut down the unattended vegetation — but weed abatement is billed to the property owner.”

Neighborhood organizations who support clear sidewalks may cut/remove weeds between curb and sidewalk as a courtesy to sidewalk users; however, homeowners must authorize cutting overgrowth on property.  Clean up operations are a great way to involve and unify neighbors.   One neighborhood group not only cut the curb/sidewalk weeds but also sprayed the stubs in hopes of preventing more growth before winter sets in.

Bottom line: Cut the weeds!