Sacramento County, CA Landscaping Rules: Weed Ordinances (2026)

Fire-hazard weed abatement in much of unincorporated Sacramento County is administered by the Sacramento Metropolitan Fire District (Metro Fire) under the County's Weed Control provisions (County Code Chapter 17.12) and California fire-safety law. During the dry season, roughly May through November, Metro Fire inspects parcels in its boundaries. Property owners must keep land cleared of weeds, grass, vines, and other readily ignitable growth that could endanger neighboring property. The published standard for residential properties under one-half acre is that weeds be cut to no more than one inch in height and that all cuttings be removed. A minimum 30-foot clearance (defensible space) must be maintained around buildings, combustible fences, vehicles, structures, and storage areas. When a parcel is non-compliant, Metro Fire issues a Notice to Abate the hazard; if the owner does not act, the District can pursue further enforcement and abatement. These County/fire-district rules operate alongside California Public Resources Code section 4291 defensible-space requirements that apply in state responsibility and high-fire-hazard areas. Beyond fire season, dead and overgrown vegetation can also be cited as a public nuisance under County Code Chapter 16.18. Report unincorporated-area weed hazards to Metro Fire (916-859-4327 / weedabatement@metrofire.ca.gov) or call 311.