Better call the tow truck if you have a bunch of junk cars sitting around on your property as city leaders have set their sights on getting rid of vehicles messing up the scenery.

During last week’s board of mayor and aldermen meeting, the group passed an ordinance that would require Smithville residents to get rid of untidy vehicles on their property. As part of the ordinance, a city police officer would be authorized to issue a summons for violations on private property after getting a citizen complain or if the officer feels the property is in violation. The citation would give the violator 30 days to clean up their property or face having to pay $50 a day, per vehicle in fines. Should the property owner defy the city ruling, a city tax lien could be placed on them.

There will be exceptions to the ordinance to protect persons who are not just allowing vehicles to sit around and rust. Among the exceptions will be those who store, keep, and maintain a junked vehicle on private property that is completely enclosed within a building and not visible from the street or nearby property will be excluded. An exception will also be made if the vehicle in question is in the process of being restored. A last exception will be made for junk yards provided it property is lawfully zoned for business and engaged in wrecking, junking, or repairing vehicles.

The ordinance will likely be passed and become law of the land during the city board meeting in March when it comes up for second reading.