The City of Jackson is launching its first-ever "No Mow May" starting Monday, May 1. Earlier this year, the City Council approved a resolution supporting the “No Mow May” initiative. Communities across the country have participated in this effort, which allows property owners to forgo grass cutting from May 1-31 to help the growth of dandelions and other wildflowers that are early food sources for bees and other pollinators.
Supporters say this is particularly important in urban areas where there are limited spaces for growth. Jackson’s No Mow May only allows residents to not mow backyards. Grass length will still be enforced in the front yard of properties during the month of May. Enforcement of grass and weed length in any area of a property will resume on June 1 and last through the grass cutting season.
The City’s mowing ordinance says residents are responsible for maintaining lawns and must keep grass and weeds below 8 inches in height. Letting grass grow beyond 8 inches for weeks or months can result in a fine and City contractors coming onto your property to cut the grass. The average fine for this violation is $202, but it can sometimes cost more depending on how much grass and weeds have to be removed.
