Yard Waste Ordinance

Protection

In July, 2006, the Moberly City Council adopted an Ordinance directly addressing yard wastes deposited on the city streets. This ordinance has little to do with the aesthetic value of clean streets, but rather was implemented to protect property and the environment.

Pollution

Grass clippings, leaves and plant prunings are a significant source of problems and pollution when allowed to wash into storm drains. Yard wastes that enter the storm drain system will decrease the flow capacity and/or cause blockages, increasing the risk of street and basement flooding.

Basket of plants

Waterway Contamination

Yard wastes that find their way through the storm drain system enter local creeks and waterways. As this organic matter decomposes it uses up the oxygen required by aquatic life. The excess nutrients promote algae growth further depleting the oxygen supply.  The rotting grass and leaves can create a foul odor and discolor the water. Improperly discarded yard wastes create problems in the street, in the storm drain system and in local creeks and lakes.