Whittier, CA Landscaping Rules: Weed Ordinances (2026)

Because Whittier is an incorporated city, weed and brush abatement is handled by the City of Whittier under Municipal Code Chapter 8.24, not by Los Angeles County. Section 8.24.005 says the chapter provides an alternative method for removing noxious weeds, rubbish, or other materials from private property. Section 8.24.007 places a duty on each lot owner to maintain the property and abutting rights-of-way so they do not become a public nuisance, including removing weeds, rubbish, or other materials that may constitute a fire hazard or refuge for rats or vermin, or produce injurious pollen. Section 8.24.010 prohibits maintaining such a condition and declares it a public nuisance. The enforcement steps: under Section 8.24.020 the director of public works gives a notice to remove; Section 8.24.030 sets the form of notice, including a posted notice headed 'NOTICE TO CLEAN PREMISES' in letters at least one inch high, and allows the alternative of personal service or mailing. The notice gives 10 days to remove the weeds, rubbish, refuse, and dirt; if removal is not made within 10 days the City removes it and assesses the cost as a lien on the property. Sections 8.24.040 and 8.24.070 provide for appeals to the city council, and Sections 8.24.060-8.24.080 cover assessment, lien, and entry on the tax roll. This abatement authority is especially relevant in Whittier's hillside/Puente Hills areas, which CAL FIRE maps place in Fire Hazard Severity Zones.