Grass Height Limits: Delano vs Ridgecrest

Will the City mow my lot?

After notice and a failure to abate, yes — costs are recovered as a lien against the property.

Does Kern County set a specific maximum grass or weed height?

Chapter 8.46 does not specify a single grass-height number; instead, it requires clearance of all non-ornamental combustibles and vegetation within 30 feet of structures and fuel reduction within 100 feet. The standard is whether vegetation creates a fire hazard, evaluated by Fire Department inspectors. Within the 30-foot zone, vegetation should be green, ornamental trees, grass, and shrubs only.

When are inspections done?

Property inspections occur after the June 1 deadline each year. Property owners receive notification letters prior to the deadline. If cited, owners have 15 days from the citation mailing date to correct the violation to avoid being assessed a fine.

Does the County clear my property for me?

No. The Kern County Fire Department states it does not have the capability to conduct fire hazard abatement on cited properties, making correction the owner's responsibility. If the owner does not abate, the County may contract abatement and assess costs against the property as a lien.

What if my property is vacant?

For vacant properties, the Kern County Fire Department requires a minimum 10-foot fuel break along property lines adjacent to neighboring structures, and properties remain subject to the full Chapter 8.46 requirements year-round.