Image from Greater Napanee Council Agenda for July 28, 2026 meeting
Greater Napanee town council has agreed to review its grass-cutting bylaw after hearing concerns from residents who want more flexibility for naturalized landscapes.
Julie Bogdanowicz asked council to suspend a mowing order issued for her property on Dorland Drive, where she has spent years creating a meadow and woodland habitat.
Bogdanowicz told council the property is designed to support wildlife and improve ecological health, with native plants, milkweed, wet meadow areas and restored habitat. She said the family has invested more than $10,000 into the project with support from Quinte Conservation.
She asked the municipality to update its bylaw to focus on health and safety concerns, such as noxious weeds and hazards, rather than requiring all properties to have traditional lawns.
Several councillors supported reviewing the bylaw, while also noting concerns about neighbours, invasive species and public safety issues such as ticks and wild parsnip.
Councillor Bill Martin said naturalized landscapes should be considered differently from neglected properties and supported suspending the mowing order while the bylaw is reviewed.
Council voted to suspend the mowing order until staff can provide a report on possible bylaw changes and review approaches used by other municipalities.
Council also heard from Austin Lloyd, a young horticulture enthusiast who encouraged the municipality to modernize its rules. Lloyd said natural gardens can provide environmental benefits while still maintaining safety standards.
Staff will examine options, legal considerations and the need for public consultation before bringing recommendations back to council.
Written by Emily Chatwood
