Medford, OR Environmental Rules: Defensible Space (2026)

430(1) of the Medford Municipal Code makes it unlawful for any owner or occupant to allow grass, weeds, brush, or bushes over 10 inches tall to remain on real property from May 1 through September 30, or at any other time the Fire Chief or designee determines the growth is a fire hazard. Dead or dried vegetation over 10 inches is automatically deemed a fire hazard. 5-acre maximum sections with 30-foot cross-breaks, and a minimum 100-foot firebreak required adjacent to improved subdivisions (road width may count toward that 100 feet).

Subsection (1)(e) applies the same minimum 100-foot firebreak, described in the code as "defensible space," specifically around structures located in wildfire hazard zones. Exemptions exist for landscaped ornamental shrubs, agricultural crops and pasturage on lawfully zoned land, and designated natural areas within city parks approved by the Park Development Commission. 440: the City Manager may publish an annual nuisance notice giving 21 days to clear growth, and mailed notices to owners/occupants give 15 days to comply. Owners can petition the City Recorder for hardship relief before or within 10 days of a notice, with a right to appeal an adverse decision to the City Council within 10 days. 470(2).