Merced, CA Landscaping Rules: Weed Ordinances (2026)
Key Facts
- Governing section
- Merced Municipal Code Sec. 8.40.270
- State authority
- Govt. Code Sec. 39561 et seq.
- Weeds definition
- Merced Municipal Code Sec. 8.40.030(F)
- Adoption method
- City council resolution per parcel
- Cost hearing
- Noticed council hearing, Sec. 8.40.340
Summary
Merced Municipal Code Section 8.40.270 lets the city council declare by resolution that weeds growing on streets, sidewalks, or private property are a public nuisance and pursue abatement, penalties, and cost recovery from the responsible party, using the weed definition and process set out in California Government Code Section 39561 et seq.
The city council may:A.Declare by resolution, pursuant to California Government Code Section 39561 et seq., that a public nuisance exists with respect to a specific parcel whenever that parcel is being maintained in a manner that has resulted in weeds, as that term is defined in California Government Code Section 39561.5, being grown upon the streets, sidewalks or private property in the city; andB.Commence any action or proceeding, pursuant to California Government Code Section 39561 et seq., to abate the public nuisance, to pursue all other remedies against the violator, to seek the imposition of all penalties against the violator and to recover any and all costs from the responsible person.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 85 - 1-26).
Full Breakdown
40, the article devoted specifically to weeds and rubbish. 5, are growing on the streets, sidewalks, or private property; second, commence an action or proceeding under that same state statute to abate the nuisance, pursue remedies, impose penalties, and recover costs from the responsible person. 030(F) to include growth bearing downy or wingy seeds, indigenous grasses that become a fire menace when dry, otherwise noxious or dangerous weeds, seasonal recurring nuisance weeds, poison oak and poison ivy that threaten public health, garden refuse and combustible cuttings, and mistletoe. 340.
Violations & Fines
Once the council resolves that weeds on a parcel are a nuisance, the responsible person can be pursued for all remedies and penalties available under Government Code Section 39561 et seq., and the city can recover its abatement costs from the property owner or occupant. If the city performs the abatement, the assessed cost is confirmed at a noticed council hearing and can be collected against the parcel the same way as other city nuisance-abatement charges.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Merced have a maximum weed height limit?
How does the city start a weed abatement case?
Who pays if the city has to remove weeds from my lot?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Merced
How Merced compares: Cities with the Strictest Weed and Property Maintenance Rules·California rules heatmap·Compare Merced to another location·View the California landscaping rules overview
See something wrong?
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.