Whatcom County makes noxious-weed control mandatory. Under state law and the county Noxious Weed Control Board, owners must eradicate Class A weeds and control listed Class B and C species. This is a real, enforceable duty backed by abatement and liens.
Overgrown grass is a nuisance, but noxious weeds are a legal obligation. The Whatcom County Noxious Weed Control Board, established under WCC Chapter 2.27 and active since 1981, enforces RCW 17.10 across five weed districts covering the county from the Canadian border south. Owners must eradicate all Class A weeds and control designated Class B and C species before they bloom or seed. Wet-side targets include tansy ragwort, knotweed, poison-hemlock, and purple loosestrife. If an owner fails to act, the Board can control the weeds at the owner's expense and lien the property.
The Weed Board issues a notice to control listed weeds. If ignored, it abates at the owner's expense, including labor, materials, and administrative fees, and records the charge as a lien after a hearing.
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