Long Beach, CA Landscaping Rules: Weed Ordinances (2026)
Key Facts
- Code
- LBMC Ch. 9.37 (Nuisance Code)
- Enforcement
- Code Enforcement Bureau
- Standard
- No overgrown weeds visible from public
- Abatement
- City may abate at owner's expense
Summary
Long Beach requires property owners to control weeds and overgrown vegetation under LBMC Ch. 9.37. Properties with weeds visible from public view may receive a nuisance citation. The city conducts regular code enforcement sweeps.
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
Under LBMC Chapter 8.56 (Weed Removal), property owners are required to remove all weeds, grasses, shrubs, or dead trees upon lots, parcels, or alleyways that pose a fire hazard. Weed abatement is a year-round responsibility in Long Beach. Upon receiving notice, property owners have 30 days to demonstrate compliance, with inspections beginning in May. The City enforces weed abatement through multiple code sections (LBMC Chapters 8.56, 9.65, 18.20, and 18.21) with specified notification and appeal processes. Interest rates for delinquent charges are established in LBMC Sections 8.56.130, 9.65.140, 18.21.040, and 18.20.210. The Code Enforcement Bureau handles complaints of weed abatement violations alongside substandard buildings, property maintenance issues, and inoperative vehicles.
Violations & Fines
Non-compliant properties are cleared by City contractors at premium rates plus administrative fees. Unpaid charges result in a recorded lien against the property. Recent assessment cycles have included charges exceeding $16,000 for individual properties.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the weed abatement requirements in Long Beach?
What happens if I don't clear weeds from my Long Beach property?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Long Beach
How Long Beach compares: Cities with the Strictest Weed and Property Maintenance Rules·California rules heatmap·Compare Long Beach to another location·View the California landscaping rules overview
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