ORDINANCE NO. BL2008-224

An ordinance amending Section 16.24.330 of the Metropolitan Code to prohibit the excessive accumulation of wood chips/mulch.

WHEREAS, an excessive accumulation of wood chips and/or mulch derived from wood exists on certain properties in Davidson County; and

WHEREAS, the excessive accumulation of wood chips/mulch can cause contamination of the groundwater, as well as entice vermin onto the property; and

WHEREAS, dumping large quantities of wood chips/mulch also creates a haven for termites, which can compromise the structural integrity of adjacent homes and buildings; and

WHEREAS, it is fitting and proper that the Council impose reasonable limitations on the excessive accumulation of wood chips/mulch.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ENACTED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE METROPOLITAN GOVERNMENT OF NASHVILLE AND DAVIDSON COUNTY:

Section 1. Section 16.24.330 of the Metropolitan Code is hereby amended by adding the following new subsection Q.:

“Q. Wood chips/Mulch. No owner or occupant of any parcel of property one-half (1/2) acre in size or greater shall permit more than five percent (5%) of the lot area to be covered with wood chips/mulch. This provision shall not apply to commercial establishments engaged in the sale of wood chips/mulch, nor to any government-owned property used for the collection and/or sale of mulch.”

Section 2. This Ordinance shall take effect from and after its passage, the welfare of The Metropolitan Government of Nashville and Davidson County requiring it.

Sponsored by: Bruce Stanley