Downey Grass Height Limits Rules (2026): What You Need to Know

Downey's Residential Zones Property Development Standards require that all front yards and street-side yards in residential zones be landscaped and maintained in good condition. Grass, ground cover, and other plantings must be regularly maintained to prevent overgrowth. Weeds and grass exceeding 12 inches in height are declared a public nuisance under Chapter 4, Article V of the Municipal Code, and property owners may be cited and required to abate the nuisance.

The front yard must remain free and clear of construction materials, automotive parts, trash storage receptacles, inoperable motor vehicles, discarded or broken materials, appliances, junk, equipment, car cover structures, and similar materials. The only paved surfaces permitted in the front yard are approved pedestrian walkways, driveways, and patios. Dead or dying vegetation must also be removed to prevent fire hazards and pest harborage. During high fire risk seasons, the Los Angeles County Fire Department may also issue separate weed abatement orders.

Property owners are additionally responsible for the parkway strip — the landscaped area between the public sidewalk and the street curb — keeping it free of weeds, debris, and overgrowth. All new landscaping must use plants from the City's approved plant list. The City conducts seasonal inspections for weed abatement compliance, typically from spring through fall. If a property owner fails to abate a nuisance after receiving notice, the City may contract to have the work done and bill the costs to the owner, with unpaid charges becoming a lien on the property.