Pasadena Weed Ordinances Rules (2026): What You Need to Know

Pasadena Municipal Code Chapter 8.36 establishes property maintenance standards requiring all lots to be kept free of overgrown weeds, dead vegetation, rubbish, and conditions that create fire hazards, attract rodents, or constitute a public nuisance. The City conducts annual weed abatement inspections beginning in early spring, with particular focus on hillside properties and vacant lots.

Properties in the Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone (primarily north Pasadena and the hillside neighborhoods) are subject to mandatory brush clearance requirements enforced by the Pasadena Fire Department. These properties must maintain defensible space by clearing dry brush, weeds, and combustible vegetation to at least 200 feet from structures or to the property line, whichever is less. Vegetation must be maintained at a height of 4 inches or less within the first 30 feet of the structure. Property owners who fail to abate weeds after receiving notice may have the work performed by the City, with costs plus administrative fees assessed as a lien against the property. Vacant lot owners are responsible for ongoing maintenance even when the property is unoccupied. Contact Code Compliance at (626) 744-4633 to report overgrown properties.