Weed Ordinances: Long Beach vs Santa Monica
How do weed ordinances rules compare between Long Beach, CA and Santa Monica, CA?
Long Beach and Santa Monica have similar restriction levels.
Long Beach, CA
Los Angeles County
Long Beach requires property owners to control weeds and overgrown vegetation under LBMC Ch. 9.37. Properties with weeds visible from public view may receive a nuisance citation. The city conducts regular code enforcement sweeps.
View full Long Beach rules →Santa Monica, CA
Los Angeles County
Santa Monica requires property owners to maintain landscaping and prevent weed growth under SMMC Ch. 13.02. Overgrown vegetation, dying or dead plants, and inadequate ground cover are property maintenance violations.
View full Santa Monica rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Long Beach | Santa Monica |
|---|---|---|
| Code | LBMC Ch. 9.37 (Nuisance Code) | SMMC Ch. 13.02 |
| Enforcement | Code Enforcement Bureau | Code Enforcement |
| Standard | No overgrown weeds visible from public | No overgrown, dying, or dead vegetation |
| Abatement | City may abate at owner's expense | - |
| Ground Cover | - | Required to prevent erosion |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Long Beach FAQ
What are the weed abatement requirements in Long Beach?
Property owners must remove all weeds, grasses, shrubs, and dead trees that pose fire or health hazards year-round per LBMC 8.56. You have 30 days after receiving a notice to comply.
What happens if I don't clear weeds from my Long Beach property?
The City will hire contractors to clear your property at premium rates plus administrative fees and record a lien against your property for unpaid charges. Individual charges can exceed $16,000.
Santa Monica FAQ
Will Santa Monica cite me for weeds on my property?
Yes. Properties must be maintained free of weeds per SMMC Chapter 8.108. Each day is a separate violation.
Can I use gravel instead of grass in Santa Monica?
No. Ground cover must be live plant material. Gravel, rock, bark, and similar nonplant materials are not acceptable substitutes.
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