Pittsburg, CA Landscaping Rules: Weed Ordinances (2026)

Noxious weed control in Pittsburg combines state law (California Food and Agricultural Code 5004), the California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) noxious weed list, Contra Costa County Agricultural Commissioner enforcement, and the city's weed abatement authority. CDFA rates noxious weeds A (eradication required), B (containment), C (widespread, local option), or Q (under evaluation). Common noxious species in east Contra Costa County include yellow starthistle, medusahead grass, artichoke thistle, Sahara mustard, puncturevine (goathead), and invasive broom species. Property owners must remove or treat these species when directed by the County Agricultural Commissioner or the city. Pittsburg's weed abatement program, authorized under Gov Code 39560-39588 and H&S Code 14875, allows the city to declare overgrown weeds a public nuisance, serve notice to abate, and lien the property for cleanup costs if the owner fails to act. Herbicide applications must follow CA Department of Pesticide Regulation rules and BAAQMD drift restrictions; properties near creeks, the Delta, or storm drains must avoid runoff of treatment products. Manual removal, mowing before seed set, and planting competitive native species are encouraged. Reports of severe infestations can be made to Code Enforcement or the Contra Costa Agricultural Commissioner.