Pittsburg, CA Landscaping Rules: Grass Height Limits (2026)

Pittsburg enforces vegetation height through the city's weed abatement program authorized under California Government Code 39560-39588 and California Health and Safety Code 14875. The municipal code treats overgrown grass, weeds, and dead vegetation as a public nuisance, particularly in late spring and summer due to fire risk. Typical enforcement triggers apply when grass or weeds exceed 6-12 inches on residential parcels, though the actual threshold used by Code Enforcement considers fuel load, adjacency to structures, and fire hazard classification. The abatement process begins with a courtesy notice, followed by a formal notice and order to abate giving the property owner 10-30 days to cut and remove vegetation. If the owner does not comply, the city contracts for forced abatement and bills the owner; unpaid charges become a special assessment lien against the property recorded with Contra Costa County. Vacant lots, properties adjacent to Black Diamond Mines and open space, and parcels along Kirker Pass are inspected each year before fire season. Dead trees, accumulated dry leaves, and tumbleweeds are also covered. Property owners can appeal a notice before the City Council or designated hearing officer. Owners are encouraged to weed abate by June 1 each year to avoid entering the enforcement queue.