What our community feels and looks like are significant factors in attracting new residents and businesses. In order to maintain the “hometown” feel that has brought so many of us to Anna, we encourage everyone to be a good neighbor and take pride in your home and community. Let’s work together to tackle the five most common code violations.

First, tall grass and weeds—this can spoil the look of any home or business. Not only is the look and appeal important to a home or business, but tall grass and weeds attract snakes, rats, mosquitoes, and chiggers which create health and safety concerns. For a healthy lawn, we encourage residents to mow frequently and allow grass clippings to remain on lawn areas. Research has shown that grass clippings recycle valuable plant nutrients back into the grass while helping enhance the topsoil.

Second, garbage and rubbish— this is also a health and safety concern in addition to a community appearance issue. Litter, loose brush and tree limbs, junk vehicles, broken down equipment, and dumpsters or trash cans that are overflowing or left out in front of homes are all code violations. Except for the normal collection day, trash and recycling polycarts may not be stored in the front yard of any property.

Third, broken fences— that’s right, fences that are falling over are a code violation. Broken fences detract from neighborhood appearance and encourage trespassing and other mischief. Remember that broken wooden fence posts must be replaced with metal support posts and a permit is required in order to construct a new fence.

Fourth, illegal dumping— improper disposal of waste is a serious offense and is a financial and environmental concern for the victim. When illegal dumping occurs on public property such as parks, and road-side ditches, the City must pay to remove the debris and that’s an additional cost we all share. It is difficult to catch illegal dumpers so keep a look out and call the police dispatch at (972) 547-5350 to report any suspicious activity.

Finally, substandard housing— dilapidated and damaged structures are health and safety concerns that will lower the value of any neighborhood. To prevent structures from becoming substandard, the City’s property maintenance code requires an owner to correct any structural failures, and keep up with general repairs like painting and replacing broken windows and doors.

Code compliance is the responsibility of each individual property owner. To report a problem, please call the Planning and Development office at (972) 924-3325. Let’s work together to make our community attractive.