Livermore, CA Landscaping Rules: Weed Ordinances (2026)
Key Facts
- Authority
- Gov Code §39561
- Weed List
- Alameda County Ag Comm.
- Fire Overlap
- PRC §4291
- Common Weeds
- Star thistle, medusahead
- Enforcement
- LPFD annual program
Summary
Livermore abates noxious weeds and overgrown vegetation under Gov Code §39560 and PRC §4291, targeting fire fuels on vacant lots and hillside parcels.
5004. "Noxious weed" means any species of plant that is, or is liable to be, troublesome, aggressive, intrusive, detrimental, or destructive to agriculture, silviculture, or important native species, and difficult to control or eradicate, which the director, by regulation, designates to be a noxious weed. In determining whether or not a species shall be designated a noxious weed for the purposes of protecting silviculture or important native plant species, the director shall not make that designation if the designation will be detrimental to agriculture. (Amended by Stats. 1992, Ch. 556, Sec. 1. Effective January 1, 1993.)
Full Breakdown
Livermore Municipal Code treats noxious weeds, dead vegetation, and rubbish accumulation as public nuisances subject to abatement under California Government Code §§39560-39588. The Alameda County Agricultural Commissioner maintains the noxious weed list (including yellow star thistle and medusahead, common in Livermore Valley). LPFD's annual fire hazard abatement program targets parcels in or adjacent to VHFHSZ, requiring mowing, disking, or herbicide treatment. Property owners bear all abatement and lien costs if they fail to act on notices.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is yellow star thistle a regulated weed in Livermore?
Can I use herbicide instead of mowing?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Livermore
How Livermore compares: Cities with the Strictest Weed and Property Maintenance Rules·California rules heatmap·Compare Livermore to another location·View the California landscaping rules overview
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Weed Ordinances in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Alameda County handle weed ordinances.