Dear Mrs. A – September 2025
Dear Mrs. A.
There are kids walking across my yard to school and it’s creating an unwanted path. What is the etiquette?
Green Briar Granny
Dear Granny-
No one wants to be that person who yells at the kids to “stay off my lawn.” But I completely understand, and I think it’s a perfect time to remind all of us about common pedestrian etiquette.
The term “etiquette” itself originated from the signs (called étiquettes) placed in the Gardens of Versailles to keep people on the pathways to avoid trampling the lawns and flowerbeds. The system was expanded into the comprehensive rules of etiquette we know today.
It’s a problem even the state of Colorado has addressed with their “Stay The Trail” campaign to highlight responsible trail use and minimize resource damage on public land.
But what about private property? Well, it’s called good pedestrian etiquette, and it dictates that we stay on designated pathways, stay off private lawns, flower beds and restricted areas. Grass likes growing, not footsteps.
Other pedestrian courtesies include keeping to the right, not blocking the path, share with care (faster walkers, strollers or wheelchairs get the passing lane); as tempting as it is to jaywalk, cross at crosswalks; stay on sidewalks and don’t take shortcuts.
You are not wrong to want folks to respect your lawn. It’s a reminder to us all.
Big Love,
Mrs. A.
