What You Should Know: Edina’s Lawn and Junk Vehicle Rules

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EDINA, Mo. — City officials are reminding residents of two key ordinances that help protect public safety and keep neighborhoods clean: one addressing overgrown vegetation and another regulating junk vehicles and other debris on private and public property.

Under Ordinance No. 262, property owners and occupants must ensure that grass, weeds, or similar vegetation do not exceed eight inches in height. This regulation applies to all private property within city limits. However, ornamental landscaping, trees, shrubs, flowers, and vegetable gardens are exempt.

Excessive growth is considered a public nuisance, as it can harbor rodents, mosquitoes, and other pests, and increase the risk of fire. When a violation is found, a written notice requiring the owner or occupant to bring the property into compliance within 10 days can be issued.

If the violation is not corrected, the city may enter the property, remove the overgrowth, and bill the property owner for the cost of the work.

In addition to these costs, the ordinance allows the municipal court to impose a fine ranging from $10 to $200 for each day the nuisance remains. Any unpaid charges may be added to the property’s tax bill as a lien.

Ordinance No. 621 addresses abandoned and derelict vehicles, as well as junk and scrap items left in public view. Vehicles that are dismantled, inoperable, or left unattended for extended periods are considered a nuisance unless they are stored inside a building or fully enclosed by a solid fence at least eight feet tall.

The ordinance also applies to scrap metal, machinery parts, appliances, and similar discarded items. If a violation occurs, the city will issue a 10-day notice requiring the removal or correction of the issue. If the nuisance is not resolved, the city may tow the vehicle or remove the debris and store it at the owner’s expense.

Items that remain unclaimed after 20 days may be sold or disposed of, and any proceeds will be held for 30 days. If unclaimed, those funds will be transferred to the city’s general fund. Violators may be charged with a misdemeanor and are subject to daily fines.

The cost of removal, storage, and penalties may be billed to the property owner, and if unpaid, may also be added as a tax lien.

Both ordinances remain in effect year-round and are designed to promote public health, safety, and the overall quality of life in Edina. Residents with questions about compliance are encouraged to contact City Hall.