Charlotte County homeowners worry overgrown vacant lots raise wildfire risk

CHARLOTTE COUNTY, Fla. (WINK) — Homeowners are raising concerns about wildfire risk from overgrown vacant lots beyond their property lines.

While residents work to clear brush and create defensible space around their homes, they have no control over neighboring properties. Several neighbors brought the concern to WINK News.

A Charlotte County homeowner said overgrown, vacant lots are a concern for nearby residents, especially during fire season. She says many homeowners keep their homes clear at 30 feet, but that's not always possible.

"Snakes, rodents, wildfire, you name it," Debra Prevost said. "The brush that grows out grows into the road. It grows into somebody else's yard. So you're still end up mowing part of it to keep it out of your yard."

Charlotte County says there is no general requirement for owners of vacant lots to clear or maintain naturally occurring vegetation. That means in many cases, overgrown lots may not violate the county code.

Officials also say complaints about vegetation near property lines are often considered neighbor-to-neighbor issues. One neighbor believes there should be some sort of ordinance during fire season.

The county also said they work with the Florida Forest Service during fire season. When it comes to vacant lots, there are limited enforcement options.