You run the risk of getting a $500 fine for mowing your lawn, depending on the time of day – it’s earlier than you think

RESIDENTS of a certain city risk a $500 fine if they don’t follow a strict time rule.

These people may be charged for mowing their lawn after a specific period of time, which may be sooner than people realize.

Noise control rules in the city of Ankeny, Iowa, about 10 miles north of Des Moines, cover a range of common household tasks.

Lawn mowing and use of motorized outdoor equipment are subject to strict rules in accordance with section 44.05 of the City’s Noise Control chapter.

These items include “motor-powered, muffler-equipped lawn and garden equipment,” according to American Legal Publishing Code Library.

One of the rules concerns the times when this equipment cannot be used.

Most homeowners know not to use these items late at night or in the early morning hours, but the cut in Ankeny may surprise some people.

Lawn mowers cannot be used from 9pm to 7am every day.

This means homeowners who mow their lawn at 8pm or 9pm could be charged.

City rules state that the minimum fine for breaking this rule is $100, plus any surcharges or court costs that may arise from it.

This violation can also increase to a maximum charge of $500.

Other noises subject to strict timing rules include alarm testing and chainsaw use.

For example, the sound emitted by chainsaws cannot be produced between 9pm and 7am.

UNEXPECTED FINES

Homeowners were not the only group to be targeted by new or specific rules.

Drivers faced new or lesser-known road laws in different states, the US Sun previously reported.

For example, drivers in Alabama should be aware of a new law that went into effect in June.

Police have launched a crackdown on drivers using their phones behind the wheel.

The new law, which strictly prohibits people from using their phone or holding the device to their ear while driving, was introduced in June 2023.

A one-year grace period ends on June 15, 2024, so drivers caught violating this law could receive a fine of up to $150.

Drivers in Kentucky also faced the expansion of a pre-existing highway law.

The state expanded a 2003 law that required drivers to slow down or yield to road crews, emergency responders or tow truck operators.

This has been extended to include disabled vehicles.

Drivers who fail to comply with this rule could face fines of $500 or even jail time.