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Jun 09, 2025

Waterloo, Cedar Rapids Enforce Mowing Rules Despite 'No Mow May'

It's gonna be Maaaay! Actually, it is! Do you remember the trendy "No Mow May" that allegedly saved bees? It's BS... at least that's what established news outlets claim. Oh, and your yard looks awful

It's gonna be Maaaay! Actually, it is!

Do you remember the trendy "No Mow May" that allegedly saved bees?

It's BS... at least that's what established news outlets claim. Oh, and your yard looks awful when you let it grow and let weeds fester.

Okay, enough commentary, it's not just gross to let your yard look like a hippie, it's likely illegal where you live.

Let's start with the city of Waterloo. They have not allowed residents to let it all hang out in a couple of years.

A press release sent to us from Tara Thomas-Gettman, Director of Strategic Communication, states,

The City of Waterloo’s Code Enforcement is reminding residents that the City will NOT be participating in a No Mow May as some communities have offered in recent years.

Cedar Rapids also reminds residents that starting May 1, you're responsible for keeping your yard in order and looking presentable.

In Iowa City, they've been okay with residents participating in "mow less May", but not a full-on mow-free month.

If the city has to do it for you, you'll be charged a lot, depending on the size of your property. So please, mow mow mow your boat. Erm, lawn.

The only real wild card is Cedar Falls, which in 2022 chose to allow residents to participate in No Mow May.

In 2023, they walked it back... a bit, informing folks they needed to mow, but could let the grass grow a little longer, just not out of control.

READ MORE: Check Out All the Free Shows Coming to the 2025 Iowa State Fair

That was under the supervision of the city's previous mayor. Under the new mayor, Danny Laudick, it doesn't appear that there are any updates or changes to the previous policy.

If you have any doubts about the laws where you are, please PLEASE... mow your lawn.

Check out some tiny Iowa towns! All of which should avoid a no-mow May..

Gallery Credit: Gabe Glidden

Gallery Credit: Kerri Mac