Santa Clara County declares overgrown weeds, dead vegetation, and combustible debris a public nuisance under the weed abatement program. Non-compliant parcels are abated by contractors with costs liened to tax bills.
Santa Clara County Code defines weeds, dry grass, brush, and combustible rubbish as a public nuisance when they threaten fire safety or public health. Under the annual weed abatement program administered by the Fire Marshal, properties are inventoried each spring and owners receive notice of required abatement. Typical requirements include cutting grass and weeds to 4 inches, removing dead trees and brush, clearing combustible debris, and maintaining defensible space around structures. Abatement deadline is typically late April through early May, before peak fire risk. Inspectors follow up, and non-compliant parcels are referred to a county contractor for forced abatement. Costs plus a fixed administrative fee (several hundred dollars) are placed as a special assessment on the property tax bill. Urban unincorporated pockets may also see weed abatement as a general nuisance action separate from the fire-focused program, with Code Enforcement handling complaints about tall weeds on vacant lots and unmaintained yards.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
Santa Clara County, CA
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See how Santa Clara County's weed ordinances rules stack up against other locations.
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