Residents and business owners are reminded that blowing grass
into the streets is prohibited.
Though a seemingly harmless act, grass clippings eventually make their way into the sewer system.
Over time, this material builds up and can lead to the sewer plugging, causing backups into nearby
homes. The City of Ottumwa has a sewer cleaning crew running daily, but with over 230 miles of
sewer to maintain, the City is only able to rotate through the sewer system once every seven years.
Loose grass clippings on the road also create a safety hazard for vehicles. Grass clippings can act
like a layer of ice, significantly reducing traction for vehicles driving on them.
The City of Ottumwa asks that residents and business owners please direct their mowers away from
the street, blow their clippings back into the yard, or rake the debris out of the street. Those found in
violation of City Code may be subject to a civil citation.
It is a collective effort by both property owners and the City to keep our sewer running properly and
travelers on the road safe.
