Stockton Municipal Code Chapter 8.36 declares overgrown weeds and neglected vegetation a public nuisance. Lawns with 50 percent or more of the area exceeding six inches in height are deemed overgrown and subject to enforcement.
SMC 8.36 makes it unlawful for any responsible person to maintain property with weeds, dead vegetation, debris, or overgrown conditions visible from the street, sidewalk, or public right-of-way. A lawn is overgrown when 50 percent or more of the area exceeds six inches tall. Neglected or inadequately maintained landscaping that is dead, decayed, diseased, weed-infested, or dying from neglect triggers enforcement. Vacant or abandoned properties under SMC 15.32 must keep front and side yards mowed and landscaped to city standards. During declared droughts the city suspends enforcement for dead or dying vegetation caused by water restrictions. California Health and Safety Code 14875 also classifies certain weeds as a nuisance statewide. Code Enforcement handles complaints and may abate conditions at owner expense if not corrected after notice.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
Stockton, CA
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