Fines For Mother Nature

On one hand, We the People are told that we cannot interfere with nature. At the same time, Raleigh FINES people who do not. Yes, government in Raleigh is SO big and they have so much time on their hands, that they have inspectors that inspect the various types of plants growing in your yard.

Apparently there's no crime in Raleigh, or surely the city would be using it's resources to fight crime rather than fine people for allowing natural, native plants to grow, right? The education system must be perfect because the city has so much extra time and money that they can actually search for native plants in yards, right?

This is absolutely assanine. The Raleigh city council is actually debating what to do about laws that currently FINE homeowners if poison ivy, a NATIVE PLANT grows in their yard. Really, I couldn't make this stuff up.

Currently, if you allow a native plant to grow in your yard, you get fined $100. Never mind that birds might have caused it to grow there, it's your fault for "letting" it grow and you can be fined.

The city council is considering the issue and trying to remove any parts of the law that seem "silly." Hey idiots, how about removing the law entirely and doing things that government is SUPPOSED to do instead of snooping around my backyard looking for a native plant!

Posted by: Ogre at 05:03 AM

Comments

1 Before I started reading your blog my dream was to retire in NC.

Here in Broward County they encourage the growth of natives... as long as they don't overhang the street or sidewalks. Or block a corner view...

Posted by: pam at September 14, 2005 07:39 AM (l6NIn)

2 Well, the weather sure is nice... and that's about the only reason many can give to move to North Carolina.

I lived in Broward County for a few years -- but at the time I really didn't pay attention to politics, so I can't make a good comparison.

Posted by: Ogre at September 14, 2005 07:42 AM (/k+l4)

3 Let me guess, they wouldn't say anything if a native marijuana plant sprang up in your back yard naturally?

I just ask because they seem to be a little backwards, so it stands to reason that a natural marijuana plant probably wouldn't bother them.

Posted by: Echo Zoe at September 14, 2005 12:27 PM (K+h36)

4 I think they'd claim that one was NOT natural, and therefore you should be fined. See? Then they get to win either way. And no, you cannot pave your land, either, without asking their permission for zoning permits and changes...

Posted by: Ogre at September 14, 2005 12:56 PM (/k+l4)

5 Salt the ground......if they say anything tell 'em it's in the bible and you are just being religious......then call the aclu for help when the city decides to sue you.

Posted by: Kender at September 24, 2005 11:09 AM (CfDyC)

6 That will only work if I claim I salted the ground because I'm a witch and because the Christians said I couldn't.

Posted by: Ogre at September 24, 2005 12:32 PM (iJFc9)

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