Residents reminded to keep sidewalks clear

While summer is not a time when residents have to think about clearing snow off their sidewalks, they do have to think about other obstructions such as bushes and large weeds.

The overgrowth of bushes outside a home on New York Avenue in Seaford was the subject of a letter sent to Town of Hempstead Supervisor Kate Murray in April. It cited evergreen shrubs and a flower garden that were overgrown and blocking a portion of the sidewalk.

According to Town of Hempstead spokeswoman Susan Trenkle-Pokalsky, the town sent out an inspector, who reported that the bushes were not in violation of town code. Another letter was sent to Murray on June 3 about the same property. An inspector again visited the property, and a violation was issued.

The property owner was given 10 days to trim the overgrown bushes. No fine was issued, and the property will be re-inspected.

According to section 181-11 of the Town of Hempstead Code, “Removal of snow, ice and obstructions,” owners and occupants of homes, businesses, churches, other buildings and vacant lots are responsible for keeping the adjacent sidewalks clear of any obstructions. In the winter, that includes snow and ice.

At all times, a sidewalk must be kept in “good and safe repair,” and “free from filth dirt, weeds or other obstructions or encumbrances.”

“Hempstead Town’s code regarding sidewalks covers obstructions ranging from snow and ice to weeds and shrubs,” Murray said. “It is important legislation that ensures that local communities remain clean, safe and desirable places to live.”

Anyone with a complaint about a blocked or unsafe sidewalk should call the town’s Highway Department at (516) 812-3471.