West Hartford Stresses Property Upkeep As Vegetation 'Grows Fast'

WEST HARTFORD, CT — West Hartford officials are sending a message this week to property owners — don't let roadside growth get out of control with the abundance of wet, hot weather this summer.

It's a matter of safety — and potential blight — officials said.

"With the abundance of rain and sunshine in Connecticut, everything is growing fast," a message posted on the town's Twitter account read. "The Town of West Hartford reminds residents and businesses of their responsibilities for maintaining their properties."

The local ordinance that enforces such matters is Chapter 177-24.

"For the safety of all, it is important that hedges, bushes, trees or other growth or any fence do not obstruct a clear view of drivers," officials said.

West Hartford officials said that, each year, several motor vehicle accidents are attributed to overgrown shrubbery on street corners and intersections. They offered a test, courtesy of West Hartford Zoning Enforcement Officer Brittany Bermingham, to determine if property owners need to trim back shrubbery:

• Drive up to the white line on a road located before the stop sign
• Look to make sure oncoming traffic and pedestrians can be seen without having to roll forward
• If there is a need to roll forward, its time get out the hedge clippers

Click here for more on the test.

"Enforcement of these ordinances is not intended to burden property owners, but instead to raise awareness of the responsibilities of maintaining property so West Hartford is a safe and enjoyable community," officials said.