Weed Ordinances: Ojai vs Ventura
How do weed ordinances rules compare between Ojai, CA and Ventura, CA?
Ojai and Ventura have similar restriction levels.
Ojai, CA
Ventura County
Ojai requires property owners to control weeds and maintain property appearance. Weeds over 12 inches or creating a fire hazard must be removed. The VCFPD enforces fire-related vegetation requirements concurrently with city code compliance.
View full Ojai rules →Ventura, CA
Ventura County
Ventura requires property owners to control weeds and combustible vegetation. Properties with excessive weeds may be declared a public nuisance. The City may perform abatement and bill property owners for costs under SBMC Chapter 1.50 and CA Health and Safety Code 13871.
View full Ventura rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Ojai | Ventura |
|---|---|---|
| Weed Height Limit | 12 inches | - |
| Fire Hazard | Dead vegetation must be removed | - |
| Compliance Period | 15 days from notice | - |
| Abatement | City may clear and lien property | - |
| Requirement | - | Clear all combustible weeds/vegetation |
| Annual Inspections | - | City conducts fire season inspections |
| Penalties | - | SBMC 1.50 + CA H&S Code 13871 |
| City Abatement | - | Costs billed to property owner |
| Enforcement | - | Code Enforcement (805) 654-7869 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Ojai FAQ
How tall can weeds be before I get cited?
Weeds and grass over 12 inches are a violation. Dead vegetation of any height is also a fire hazard violation in Ojai's wildfire zone.
What happens if I don't clear my weeds?
After a 15-day notice, the city may perform the abatement and bill you. Unpaid costs become a lien on your property.
Who do I report overgrown properties to?
Contact Community Development code compliance at (805) 646-5581. For fire hazards, also contact VCFPD at (805) 389-9710.
Ventura FAQ
When do weeds need to be cleared in Ventura?
Weeds and combustible vegetation should be maintained year-round but enforcement intensifies during fire season. The City conducts annual inspections and issues notices with deadlines for compliance.
What happens if I do not clear my weeds?
If you fail to comply with an abatement notice, the City may clear the vegetation and bill you for costs plus administrative fees. You also face civil and criminal penalties.
Does this apply to vacant lots?
Yes. Vacant lots declared a public nuisance must be cleared entirely of all combustible material. Owners are responsible regardless of whether the lot is developed.
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