Bill > HB497

This bill establishes a comprehensive process for the City of Alabaster to address plant-related nuisances on private properties. The mayor will designate an enforcing official who can issue written notices to property owners requiring them to address plant nuisances within 14 days, with the potential for a 28-day extension if unusual circumstances exist. Property owners have the right to request a hearing before an administrative official to contest the nuisance claim, during which they can present evidence and testimony. If a nuisance is confirmed, the owner must abate the issue within 14-28 days. If the owner fails to address the nuisance, the city may enter the property and remediate the problem, then create an itemized list of expenses. These expenses can be assessed as a "weed lien" against the property, which will be added to the property's tax bill and collected like ordinary municipal taxes. Property owners can appeal the administrative official's determination to the circuit court within 10 days, and any subsequent property redemption or sale must include payment of any outstanding weed liens. The act will become effective on June 1, 2025, and provides a structured, legally-defined process for addressing plant-related nuisances that potentially degrade neighborhood property values or create health and safety concerns.