Fresno County, CA Landscaping Rules: Weed Ordinances (2026)
Key Facts
- Annual Deadline
- ~June 1
- Defensible Space
- 100 ft SRA
- Lien
- If unpaid
- Noxious Weeds
- CA F&A §7271+
Summary
Fresno County weed abatement ordinance requires vacant parcels and structure perimeters to be cleared of flammable vegetation annually. 100-ft defensible space required in State Responsibility Areas per CA PRC §4291.
5004. "Noxious weed" means any species of plant that is, or is liable to be, troublesome, aggressive, intrusive, detrimental, or destructive to agriculture, silviculture, or important native species, and difficult to control or eradicate, which the director, by regulation, designates to be a noxious weed. In determining whether or not a species shall be designated a noxious weed for the purposes of protecting silviculture or important native plant species, the director shall not make that designation if the designation will be detrimental to agriculture. (Amended by Stats. 1992, Ch. 556, Sec. 1.
Full Breakdown
Fresno County spans Central Valley floor to Sierra Nevada crest. Eastern foothill and mountain areas fall within CalFire State Responsibility Areas with strict PRC §4291 defensible space requirements. Valley floor vacant parcels subject to county weed abatement with annual June 1 compliance deadline. Noxious weeds (yellow starthistle, puncturevine) subject to CA Food & Ag Code §7271+ control. Agricultural parcels generally exempt but must maintain roadside clearance.
Violations & Fines
Failure to abate: county contractor performs work; bill plus 100% administrative fee. Unpaid: property tax lien. PRC §4291 violation in SRA: CalFire citation up to $500 first offense.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who inspects for weed compliance?
Are agricultural fields subject to weed abatement?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Fresno County
How Fresno County compares: Cities with the Strictest Weed and Property Maintenance Rules·California rules heatmap·Compare Fresno County to another location·View the California landscaping rules overview
See something wrong?
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.