San Marcos, CA Landscaping Rules: Grass Height Limits (2026)

The City of San Marcos classifies overgrown vegetation as a public nuisance under its municipal code. Property owners and occupants are responsible for maintaining all landscaped and undeveloped areas on their property. Grass and weeds that exceed approximately 12 inches in height are subject to code enforcement action. Properties in or adjacent to wildland-urban interface areas in the eastern hills face additional vegetation management requirements under the city's fire safety provisions. Dead vegetation, dried grass, and accumulated leaf litter must be cleared regularly, particularly before the summer fire season. The San Marcos Fire Department may issue additional clearance requirements for properties in high fire hazard zones. Vacant lots must also be maintained to prevent weed growth and illegal dumping. Property owners who fail to abate overgrown vegetation after notice may have the work performed by the city at the owner's expense, with the cost added as a lien against the property. Code Enforcement can be reached at (760) 744-1050 x3234 to report vegetation violations.