Derry Township cares about the look of our community. Chapter 70, Brush, Grass, and Weeds of the Township Code of Ordinances has regulations regarding high grass and weeds that require the owners to keep their lawns maintained to 6 inches and to remove weeds that also exceed that height when within 200 feet of any building or structure suitable for human habitation. Additionally, Chapter 143, Property Maintenance echoes that requirement noting that “…exterior property shall be maintained free from weeds or plant growth in excess of 6 inches. All noxious weeds shall be prohibited. Weeds shall be defined as all grasses, annual plants, and vegetation, other than trees or shrubs provided; however, this term shall not include cultivated flowers and gardens”.
Here in Derry Township, trees have long been an important part of our environment as well. Milton S. Hershey said “It [trees] helps to beautify the community. We need them as part of our life. The more beautiful you can make the place look, the better life the people will have.” (8/2/1954 interview with Erdman). He also said “There is not a person alive who should not plant a tree, not for the shade that you’ll enjoy, but for those who are coming after.” (11/27/1954, Interview with Ziegler). Our first Township street tree ordinance dates back to April 25, 1960, and the current regulations can be found in Chapter 201 of the Township’s Code. Derry Township has been in the Arbor Day Foundation program “Tree City, USA” for over 25 years, so, of course, we like things green. The Township also established a Shade Tree Commission in 2019.
The trees need care to look good and function well in our urban environment. They need to be kept to a minimum height of 9 feet over sidewalks, 12 feet over minor streets and 14 feet of all other streets. Shrubs and trees that present horizontal obstacles to sidewalks must also be trimmed.
If the information sparks any questions, please feel free to contact Chuck Emerick at chuckemerick@derrytownship.org or 533-2057, option 2.
