Bishop, CA Landscaping Rules: Weed Ordinances (2026)
Key Facts
- Code chapter
- BMC 8.08 (Weeds & Refuse)
- Weeds defined
- Fire-menace / noxious growth
- City may
- Abate via street superintendent
- Cost recovery
- Special assessment + lien
- Also a nuisance under
- BMC 8.06.010(E)-(F)
Summary
Bishop Municipal Code Chapter 8.08 lets the city declare weeds, rubbish, refuse and dirt a public nuisance and order abatement. 'Weeds' means mature, seed-bearing or noxious growth that becomes a fire menace when dry. Uncleared parcels can be mowed by the city at the owner's cost.
Weeds means weeds, when mature, that bear wingy or downy seeds, which will attain such a large growth as to become a fire menace when dry, or which are otherwise noxious or dangerous.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 4).
Full Breakdown
BMC 8.08.010 defines 'weeds' as weeds that, when mature, bear wingy or downy seeds, attain such large growth as to become a fire menace when dry, or are otherwise noxious or dangerous. The city council may pass a resolution declaring weeds, rubbish, refuse or dirt a nuisance, post and mail notice, and hold a hearing. If the owner does not clear the parcel, BMC 8.08.130 authorizes the street superintendent to abate by removing the weeds and refuse. Fire-hazard dry grass and dead vegetation are also independently a nuisance under BMC 8.06.010(E)-(F). Given Bishop's Eastern Sierra fire environment, dry-vegetation clearance is enforced.
Violations & Fines
The cost of abating weeds, rubbish, refuse or dirt becomes a special assessment and lien on the parcel under BMC 8.08.180 once confirmed by the city council.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Bishop force me to cut my weeds?
Who pays if the city clears my lot?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Bishop
How Bishop compares: Cities with the Strictest Weed and Property Maintenance Rules·California rules heatmap·Compare Bishop to another location·View the California landscaping rules overview
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