The Art of Being a Good Neighbor

Get to Know Your Neighbors

A sense of community begins with communication. Make an effort to meet your neighbors and exchange basic contact information. It’s a great conversation starter and can come in handy during tough times, such as disasters like the 2020 Derecho, needing a last-minute babysitter or petsitter, or asking for help if you’re sick or injured.

A few tips on being a good neighbor

In Cedar Rapids, every resident is entitled to the quiet enjoyment of their home. We encourage all residents to do their part to support vibrant and attractive neighborhoods, and form neighborly relationships. Neighbors who know one another and talk with each other create a more helpful, safe, and caring community.

KEEP SIDEWALKS SAFE

If your home comes with a sidewalk, do your part to keep it clear, safe, and accessible for all residents. Sidewalks, including any sidewalk ramps, must be cleared within 24 hours of snow events. Property owners are required to repair sidewalks damaged by things like cracks, buckling, and uneven panels.

BE ACTIVE IN YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD

Try hosting a block party, book club, or cleanup day. Participating in events around your community can alleviate tension and solve problems.

TAKE CARE OF YOUR LAWN

A well-maintained lawn adds to the beauty of the entire neighborhood. Cedar Rapids’ ordinance requires property owners to keep their grass and weeds mowed below 12 inches. Ensuring your grass clippings do not end up in the street keeps our storm sewers clean and provides for safe travel!

Vehicles should not be parked on lawns. Vehicles using on-street parking need to be moved every 48 hours to rotate parking throughout the year and to help with snow-removal efforts in winter.

CLEAN UP YARDS AND NEIGHBORHOODS

When property owners take pride in their homes, the entire neighborhood benefits! Avoid letting trash, debris, or junk overtake your yard. Address peeling paint and other maintenance tasks that detract from your home’s beauty. Well-maintained homes help keep property values high and give the entire neighborhood a sense of pride.