The basics of being a good neighbor

Posted: Wednesday, April 25, 2012

Barking dogs, picking up after your pet, smoky campfires, possible hazard trees, trash or recycling containers left in public view, outside storage, and noise—these are some of the most common complaints expressed by Minnetonka residents about their neighbors. While they may seem like minor issues to you, please be considerate of your neighbor by complying with these city ordinances.

Trees

If you are concerned that your neighbor has a tree that is a hazard to your property, first talk to your neighbor and explain what you can see from your property. Their sightline view may not be the same, or it might be in a part of their yard they do not use frequently. For more information about hazard trees visit Identify Hazard Trees.

Trash and recycling bins

City ordinance requires that all trash and recycling bins be stored out of public view, either inside a garage or behind a screened enclosure, except for the evening before and the day of trash and/or recycling collection.

Barking dogs

Sometimes pet owners will put their dogs outside while they conduct household tasks or run errands. It’s important to monitor your dog and be sure it isn’t barking continuously while outside—even if you can’t hear it, your neighbors most likely can.

City ordinance prohibits excessive barking, which is defined as repeated noise over at least a five-minute period with one minute or less lapse of time between each animal noise during that five-minute period. (Please note: This ordinance was changed in December 2011 to reduce the time period from ten minutes to five minutes.) The ordinance is enforced 24 hours a day, seven days a week, all year round. Call the police department at 952.939.8500 to report a barking dog.

Pick up after your pet

Pet owners are required to pick up animal waste and also, at all times, to have a means to pick up the waste, such as a plastic bag.

Outside storage

According to city ordinance, outside storage of personal property is not allowed. Exceptions include items to be used in conjunction with normal outdoor residential activities such as outdoor furniture, cooking equipment and recreational equipment. Exceptions also include construction and landscaping material and equipment that is used or intended to be used on the property in a period no longer than three months or in connection with a building permit on the property.

Noise

Minnetonka’s “quiet hours” are 10 p.m. to 7 a.m., seven days a week, all year. Please be considerate of your neighbors, especially during the summer months.

Campfires

Recreational fires (campfires) in the city require a permit from the Minnetonka Fire Department. Even with a permit, the burning of brush, trash or leaves is not allowed. Visit the city website to stay updated on the current conditions of use for a recreational fire permit.

Smoke and the smell of smoke often carries into neighboring homes, even on calm days. In addition to the fact that not everyone likes the smell of a campfire, smoke is also an irritant for those who have chronic respiratory issues such as asthma, or other health problems. Beyond minding the conditions of the recreational fire permit, consider your neighbors as well.

You and your neighbors

If you recognize yourself in any of these items, but think your neighbor hasn’t noticed or isn’t bothered, you may want to reconsider. Take a few minutes to think about what kind of neighbor you’d like to be so that Minnetonka’s neighborhoods can be pleasant for everyone.

If you have noticed one of these items and you are not able to discuss it with your neighbor, please consider completing an online request through Minnetonka Mike. The request can be found by simply visiting www.eminnetonka.com and clicking on the friendly Minnetonka Mike icon.