KAWARTHA LAKES-A proposed By-Law amendment to permit long grasses and native plants in urban areas was approved by council.
The municipality now permits native plants (sometimes referred to as “weeds”) and grass exceeding eight inches in height in areas zoned or designated as open space, environmental protection, agricultural, rural, waterfront, prime agricultural, and in areas within 30 metres of a waterfront, wetland, water body or watercourse. This is set out in the municipality’s Yard Clean and Clear By-law 2014-026, which regulates vacant lots as well as yards.
Previously, the municipality did not permit native plants and grass exceeding eight inches in height in urban residential or commercial areas that are not within 30 metres of a waterfront or wetland area. The amendment to By-Law 2014-026 will now allow long grasses and non-noxious weeds to be permitted to grow on private property in urban areas in Kawartha Lakes.
Municipal Law Enforcement staff will continue to accept and review concerns regarding noxious weeds and the enforcement of the Weeds Control Act as outlined in the report.
Read the Proposed By-Law Amendment to Permit Long Grasses and Native Plants in Urban Areas report or visit the Building Pollinator Habitats project on Jump In Kawartha Lakes.