The Daily Press recently reported on the increase in high grass and weed violations in Newport News. In addition to the high number of foreclosures being to blame for the drastic increase in high grass and weed code violations, a recent state law change has made it eaiser for loclialities to crack down on property owners neglecting to maintain their yards. Now cities only have to give violators notice one time during the growing season before taking action - which is charging a fee to have inmates from the minimum security facility City Farm cut the grass.

"The number of high grass and weed code violations in Hampton has increased by 60 percent from 853 during the first six months in 2008 to 1,375 during the same period this year. Not only are the numbers of violations up in Hampton, in Newport News these kinds of offenses have suddenly spread like weeds throughout the entire 20-mile stretch of the city. High grass used to be a problem isolated at the southern end of Newport News."

The Daily Press also reviewed the law concering high grass and weeds:

• If grass is taller than 10 inches, it's a city code violations.
• Property owner has five days to remedy the problem.
• The city has to give only one notice during growing season
• City will automatically place a lien on to the property for the cost to cut the grass.

To report tall grass in Newport News:
• Call the high grass and weed complaint line at 926-7474 or fill out online form.

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