Blowing leaves in street could block city's storm system

A line of trash bags filled with leaves sits on the sidewalk in front of a local residence.(Michael Pommier)

The city of Fort Scott would like to remind local residents that it is against city ordinance to rake, blow, mow, or move grass, grass clippings and leaves into any city street or alley, a news release said.

This will eventually lead to the blocking of the city's storm drainage system, according to a statement released by the city.

In addition, it is also against city ordinance to place tree branches or limbs on the curbs, sidewalks, or streets of the city. All dead or diseased trees should be removed by the property owner. Trees overhanging city roadways or sidewalks should be trimmed and maintained by the property owner to ensure safe traffic or all large and small vehicle traffic. All site triangles should be unobstructed so traffic can flow freely, the release said.

To help dispose of unwanted brush, the city has a brush/dump site located north of the Animal Shelter on North Hill Street. It is open from 4-6 p.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays and from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturdays. The site accepts leaves, limbs, and yard clippings. If the leaves are bagged, the city asks that the bags be emptied and taken back with the resident.쇓