Sunnyvale, CA Fire Regulations: Brush Clearance (2026)

Although Sunnyvale sits on the valley floor and has no Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone designation, the city still enforces weed and rubbish abatement under Sunnyvale Municipal Code Chapter 9.48. Property owners must cut weeds and remove dead brush, dry grass over six inches tall, and combustible debris that create fire hazards. The city sends annual abatement notices in spring requiring compliance typically by late May or early June. If the owner fails to comply, the city hires contractors to abate and bills the property through a tax lien. Vacant lots, parcel edges, and alleyways are common inspection targets. Landscaped residential yards with maintained lawns generally comply without special action.