Community Watchdog

A Wantagh reader wants trampolines prohibited in backyards.

We think the problem may have more to do with irritating neighbors than anything else.

She wrote in part: “I am requesting that an ordinance be enacted by the Town of Hempstead PROHIBITING TRAMPOLINES from being erected in “closing neighboring” back yards. I have a six-foot fence enclosing my property for safety reasons and especially for my privacy,” she wrote. “There is now a new rental neighbor who has erected a TEN FOOT HIGH TRAMPOLINE, Including the netted enclosure directly behind my fence. You can see the four boys standing on it from the waist up above my fence, full body view when jumping, and this is at least five hours per day, which I am subjected to listen to…They have damaged my property, my fence, thrown a knife and trash into my yard and have also spit on me in MY OWN YARD! Please OUTLAW them, BAN them, MAKE them ILLEGAL!”

I have no doubt that this homeowner feels her privacy has been invaded, and it sounds like her new neighbors may not feel sympathetic to her wishes.

I’ve asked the town whether there are plans for any such ordinance, but I’m thinking if these boys are on the trampoline five hours a day, at least their parents know where they are.

UPDATE:

Town of Hempstead spokesman Michael Deery said the town has no plans to adopt an ordinance banning trampolines, which are considered playground equipment under New York State codes and do not require permits.

If there are knives involved, he said, police should be called to take action.