Raking or blowing leaves or grass clippings into the street is prohibited in Jonesboro, as in most municipalities, for a number of reasons.
Flooding: Leaves and grass clippings clog grates and pipes, contributing to back-ups and/or flooding. Accumulation can even create ponding which gives mosquitoes a breeding area.
Environmental Effects: When leaves or grass clippings make it to creeks, they constrict flow and use up oxygen, reducing water quality and the viability of aquatic life.
Safety: Grass in the street can be a safety problem, especially when wet. Loose or wet grass and leaves can cause cars, motorcycles and bicycles to slide or crash.
Dumping of yard waste into any ditches, drains, or any other watercourse is also prohibited. The free flow of rain water cannot be obstructed in any manner.
We request that all of our citizens comply. Businesses in the lawn service industry should ensure their employees are aware of these and other ordinances that deal with the disposal of yard waste. Violators can be cited to court, and could be fined and/or ordered to pay restitution for any cleanup costs.
For proper disposal, the city operates a yard waste facility at 2650 Lacy Drive. Nominal tipping fees may apply, but this provides a safe and easy method to ensure compliance. The City Sanitation Department can be reached at 870-932-7520 for questions regarding this facility.
To report violations, contact Code Enforcement at 870-933-4658.