Pre-Foreclosure and owner being told to stay away.

[Account Closed]

I looked at a house today that is coming up for sheriff sale.  The neighbors came out and started  talking to me about the house.  They had been told by someone hired by the bank to mow the lawn to tell the buyer he is not to return to the property.

I don't understand this.  When aren't owners allowed to go back to their house, and when do banks start moving lawns that don't belong to them.  Can someone clarify?  In addition there is no ordinance to maintain lawn in this small town.

Thanks.