Pismo Beach, CA Landscaping Rules: Weed Ordinances (2026)

Pismo Beach prints no mowing height or inch limit for weeds or grass. Chapter 8.32, Weeds and Rubbish, measures the problem by hazard. Section 8.32.010 defines "weeds" as weeds which when mature bear wingy or downy seeds and attain such a large growth as to become a fire menace when dry, or which are otherwise noxious or dangerous. The definition includes weeds growing on highways, streets, sidewalks, parkways or private property, dry grass, stubble, brush, garden refuse, litter or other flammable material that is or will in reasonable probability become a fire hazard, and poison oak and poison ivy where their location is a menace to public health.

Under § 8.32.020 the City Council can declare by resolution, as a public nuisance to be abated, weeds growing in any location within the city, whether on public or private land, and all rubbish, refuse and dirt on parkways or sidewalks and all rubbish and refuse on private property. "Rubbish" includes grass, trimmings, yard cuttings, fallen leaves and weeds.

The resolution sets a public hearing and directs the fire chief to give notice (§ 8.32.030). The fire chief mails the notice at least ten days before the hearing to each owner shown on the latest county tax roll, and nonreceipt does not invalidate an assessment (§ 8.32.060). The council rules on protests and its decision is final (§ 8.32.070).

Section 8.32.040 lets the council find that weeds on specified parcels are seasonal and recurrent nuisances. On the second and any later occurrence on the same parcel within the same calendar year, no further hearings are held and the fire chief only mails a notice letter to the owner.

An owner can clear the weeds personally, or pay to have them cleared, as long as they are removed to the satisfaction of the fire chief before city crews arrive (§ 8.32.080). Chapter 8.20's nuisance clause separately lists excessive overgrowth of vegetation and weeds that are a fire or health hazard.