Walnut Creek, CA Landscaping Rules: Grass Height Limits (2026)

Walnut Creek Municipal Code follows California Government Code Sections 39560–39588 authorizing cities to abate weeds and overgrown vegetation as public nuisances, and Health & Safety Code Section 14875. In general urban areas, code enforcement considers grass and weeds over 12 inches a violation when they present a fire hazard, harbor rodents, create unsightly conditions, or encroach on public sidewalks. In Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones in the city's eastern hills, ConFire enforces stricter standards under PRC 4291: grass must be mowed to 4 inches or less within the 100-foot defensible space zone, typically starting in late spring before fire season declaration (usually May–June) and maintained through the first significant rains. Code Enforcement or ConFire issues a courtesy notice first; if not corrected within the stated period (commonly 10–30 days), the city may perform abatement and place a lien on the property for the cost plus administrative penalties. Vacant lots and foreclosures are particular focal points. Artificial turf and drought-tolerant groundcovers are acceptable alternatives and preferred under California's water conservation framework.