SB84 Summary

• Applies only to the City of Athens and declares overgrown grass or weeds exceeding 12 inches in height a public nuisance when they create health hazards, fire risks, pest breeding grounds, or spreading weed seeds.

• Requires the enforcing official (mayor or designee) to serve written notice on property owners ordering abatement within 14-28 days, with notice posted on the property and an option for owners to request a hearing before an administrative official.

• Authorizes the city to perform abatement work if the owner fails to comply and allows the city to assess all costs (labor, equipment, materials, legal fees, advertising) against the property as a "weed lien."

• Weed lien costs are added to the property's ad valorem tax bill by the Limestone County Revenue Commissioner and collected as ordinary municipal taxes with the same penalties and foreclosure procedures.

• Property owners may appeal the administrative official's decision to circuit court within 10 days, and any weed lien remains on the property through subsequent redemptions or state sales.