How to be a Good Neighbor

 

The following are some thoughts from a variety of sources on being a good neighbor.

  1. Keep your lawn mowed and edged and your shrubs trimmed. If you don’t like yard work, consider hiring a neighborhood youth or a neighbor who enjoys yard work.
  2. Place your garbage in sealed  bags to keep trash from falling into the street during trash pick up. If possible, wait to put trash bags/cans out until the morning to keep animals out. Pick up trash in the gutters, street, and yard around your home.
  3. Keep your pets on a leash and clean up after them. Be sure to let your dog in when it starts barking.
  4. Meet your neighbors- just go over and introduce yourself.
  5. Join your neighborhood association, read the newsletter, and attend board meetings to stay informed.
  6. Volunteer time to your community association, community groups, church, or school.
  7. Adhere to community covenants and city code requirements – especially in your yard and when remodeling or adding to your home.
  8. Keep porches, yards and driveways free of toys, tools, trash, and clutter.
  9. Follow the speed limits within the neighborhood – in most cases 30 mph or slower.
  10. Put your neighbor’s newspaper at their front door when you pick up yours – make a special effort if they are out of town.
  11. Park your vehicles in your garage. If you must park in your driveway or in the street, try to limit the number of vehicles and the length of time they are parked there.
  12. Watch out for safety of area children and other residents. If you see someone suspicious around, notify the police.
  13. Turn on your outside lights at night to promote safety.
  14. Try not to play loud music or have loud conversations in your front or backyard late at night.
  15. Offer to help elderly, disabled, single parents, and people who live alone.