We are still new to this and have not had to ask a tenant to cut the grass.  We have some new tenants, young, just got married, Air Force. They are paying on time, been in our house for two months.  The problem is it appears the lawn is not being cared for.  What is a positive first approach to get them to cut the grass?

@Cali Skier are they getting code violations or HOA violations? If not as long as they are watering it you'll be okay, you may want to think of driving by the property less often though.

Written violation notice with a deadline to correct and a penalty for failing to do so.

"Dear Tenant,

Per Paragaph X of your lease agreement, you are responsible for maintaining the lawn. The lawn has not been maintained since you moved in. We hope this is an oversight and that you will handle it from this point forward.

We hereby give notice that if the lawn is not mowed and edged by (DATE), we will contract the work out and charge for the expense. Failure to pay may result in additional penalties or termination of your lease."

Thanks both.  No I have not recieved notice from the city yet, but would like the yard to be kept up and to keep the neighbors happy

@Cali Skier

Listen to Nathan . That is what you need to do here

What Nathan said. I wouldn't wait for a notice from the city, be proactive and talk to the tenants now.

@Cali Skier

Was lawn care their responsibility per the lease?

@Cali Skier tell them to cut it , or you will and bill them,Keep it simple 

Thanks guys, yes, explicit in the lease

This is why I have lawns mowed every two weeks and include it in the rent.