Summer time is the perfect time to get outside and enjoy our yards and neighborhoods. The Town of Rosetown Bylaw Officer wanted to ensure that everyone was aware of the local 'Property Maintenance and Nuisance Abatement' bylaw. By ensuring yards in town are clear of 'junked vehicles' and lawns are trimmed, everyone will be able to better enjoy the summer.

The Town's Bylaw Officer says, "A junked vehicle is any automobile, tractor, truck, trailer, which is rusted, wrecked, partly wrecked, dismantled, partly dismantled, or in abandoned condition. Vehicles with no valid plates or proper insurance are also considered junk vehicles."

Of course, you can have a vehicle that fits the 'junked vehicle' definition if it's with in a structure that meets local bylaw standards for the Town of Rosetown. Business that requires keeping 'junked' vehicles on their property, such as a dealership, mechanic or auto body shops. It's important to note, that keeping junked vehicles around is also a safety hazard. Not only do they not look good, but they can be dangerous.

"It's the inoperative and abandoned vehicles we would really like to see removed from yards," says the Rosetown Bylaw Officer. 'If you're storing a classic car that runs, in say the winter. Just get some storage insurance, or make sure it's plated and it's perfectly fine."

On top of making sure there are no 'junked vehicles' in town, the bylaw officer would like to remind everyone that they do have a responsibility to keep their yard maintained.

"People aren't allowed to let any land or buildings become untidy and unsightly. So no accumulation of used lumber, which includes tree branches, cardboard, paper, appliances, household furniture, tires, cans, scrap metal, or other waste material."

Residents should also ensure the entrances and exits to the buildings on their property are clear. They're also encouraged to keep their lawns trimmed to prevent the overgrowth of grass and weeds.

"Yeah over grown means in excess of 20 centimeters in height. But the rule does not apply to any growth that forms part of a garden. So some species of wild flowers, shrubs, perennials, grasses or combinations of them are allowed."

Owners and Occupants in Rosetown should also be aware of their obligations in regards to boulevards that are adjacent to their property. If any boulevards are adjoining your property or lane, the length of the grass is considered your responsibility.

Let’s all do our part to help keep Rosetown safe, clean and beautiful.