Des Moines Public Works official outlines homeowner responsibilities for alley upkeep

John Lame of the City of Des Moines Public Works Department told residents that homeowners are responsible for maintaining alleys adjacent to their properties, including removing trees, bushes, weeds, grass and low-hanging branches from the edge of the yard to the center of the alley, while the city maintains and repairs the driving surface.

Lame said the city’s work on driving surfaces includes "smoothing the surface and or adding material as deemed necessary." He emphasized property-owner responsibilities: "You’re responsible for keeping your alley clear of all obstructions from the edge of your yard to the center of the alley." The examples he listed included trees, bushes, weeds, grass and low-hanging branches.

According to Lame, the city will notify property owners if it identifies a maintenance problem and allow a reasonable timeframe for corrections. "If the issue is not corrected per the notice received within a reasonable timeframe, The City of Des Moines will complete the work that needs to be done on behalf of the homeowner or the property owner, and administrative charges may apply," he said.

The remarks were presented as an informational announcement; no vote or formal action was recorded in the transcript. Lame closed by noting that keeping alleys clear helps "keep Des Moines safe and accessible for everyone."