For Southgate Ordinance Officer Randy Coleman, his role is more than just making sure residents adhere to the city’s guidelines pertaining to lawn length, trash containers, vehicles and parking. It’s about improving the community, making it the best it can be.

And he has a collaborative way of doing his job.

“Communication and education are still how I like to handle each complaint,” Coleman said. “Working together and getting compliance is my goal.”

As we enter into the warmer seasons, here is a list of the most-called-on violations that Coleman handles.

1. Trash containers. All household trash should be placed in the trash and recyclable carts. It is against ordinance to place loose garbage bags at the curb. Make sure your trash is out and in a place where it won’t impede the garbage trucks from unloading the carts. Keep all containers away from cars, trees or other items that could prevent the trucks from using their mechanical claws to grasp the container. Also, residents need to have their containers out no sooner than 6 p.m. the day prior to pick up, and brought in no later than 8 a.m. the following day. The City also requires that trash containers be stored in a non-descript area, out of view from the street or sidewalk.

2. Grass and weeds. The maximum growth for lawns is 8 inches. For residents who are elderly, infirm or otherwise unable to keep up mowing their yards, Coleman suggests getting a neighbor or family member to help.

3. Dog waste. People need to pick up after their pets. Whether you’re walking your dog or you’re letting your own pet go to the bathroom in your yard, not picking it up attracts undesirable creatures such as rats, who like to consume pet waste.

4. Inoperable vehicles/commercial and recreational vehicles. No one wants to see your broken down 1977 Chevy with flat tires on your lawn or driveway for years on end. Residents who store inoperable or unlicensed vehicles need to be aware that those make a great home for rats and other creatures you don’t want hanging around. Recreational vehicles such as boats, campers and RVs are allowed, but there are certain guidelines that must be followed. Commercial vehicles such as semis, utility trailers, etc., are not allowed.

5. Parking. There is no parking on residential streets from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. on trash pickup days. Also, parking on the grass, blocking sidewalks and fire hydrants is prohibited.

6. Soliciting. There shall be no soliciting or peddlers within city limits without obtaining a permit / identification card according to city ordinance. We request residents who have questions or concerns of soliciting in progress to call Coleman at (734) 258-3036 or the Southgate Police Non Emergency / Command Desk at (734) 258-3045.


Businesses

Curb appearance is the first thing customers see. Taking a few minutes to check the parking lot or around the building for litter, condition of the parking lot, signage, etc., and addressing issues, will show everyone is working together in taking pride in this community.

If you have rodent issues: The City of Southgate has a program to assist with rodent issues – at no cost – call Coleman’s office (734) 258-3036 for more information.

The city’s ordinances can be found at the City of Southgate website (www.southgatemi.org). Go to Businesses, then Code and Ordinances. You can also file an ordinance complaint at the same website. Go to Departments, then Police Department, then Ordinance/Code Enforcement.