As defined by City Code a nuisance is "whatever is injurious to the senses, or an obstruction to the free use of property, is a nuisance." Nuisances are classified with respect to whether they are public or private nuisances, although a nuisance may be both public and private.
Living in close proximity to other individuals we have a responsibility to respect the rights of others as well as to maintain the appearances and maintenance of our residences and real property. We also have a very important responsibility to maintain the Right of Way portions of our properties. This would include keeping vegetation out of the corner visual clearance at intersections and also vegetation encroaching on or over sidewalks and streets, clearing of snow, ice and yard waste from sidewalks and maintenance of sidewalks. Failure to maintain these public ways could result in legal actions against you by private citizens should they become injured due to some neglect on your part.
Any city department can take a citizen request but for specific information refer to the following list. If you need to report a nuisance or violation please contact the appropriate department using the contact information listed below.
Animals (live)
Police
Animals (dead)
Streets
Building, plumbing, electrical, mechanical code violations
Junk cars / abandoned vehicles (in the street)
Police
Junk cars/abandoned vehicles (on private property)
Junk in yard
Mud in street from construction activity
Weeds/tall grass
Sidewalk snow shoveling
Solid waste control / garbage on private property
Sign violations
Trees in city Right of Way
Streets
Tree complaints private property
Planting trees in road Right of Way (requires permit)
Noise
Police
Miscellaneous nuisances not listed above
Property maintenance
Rental housing
Right of Way mowing
Streets
Street maintenance / pot holes
Streets
Detention basin mowing / maintenance
Drainage / erosion control / storm water runoff
Water main break / gushing water
Water Department
To contact a department directly, contact information can be found here.
Find information regarding planning and zoning in Hiawatha and community maps.
Find housing inspection information & permit applications here.
Find housing inspection information & permit applications here.
Find information regarding rental housing registraion here.
Learn more about nuisance reporting within Hiawatha city limits.
Learn more about storm water requirements and access the Storm Water Hot Line for Hiawatha.
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Contact information for Community Development staff.