Orange County, CA Property Maintenance: Vacant Lot Maintenance (2026)

Section 3-13-3(b) declares vacant real property that is not properly secured, fenced, boarded up, and maintained per Sections 3-13-9 and 3-13-10, and which is detrimental to public or adjoining-property health, safety, or welfare, to be a public nuisance. 'Vacant real property' is defined in Sec. 3-13-2 as any vacant parcel, building, or structure intentionally left vacant and unoccupied for a period exceeding 30 calendar days. Mandatory standards under Sec. 3-13-9(a) require that all structures, equipment, walls, and fencing be kept free of graffiti, and that all landscaped, concrete, dirt, or paved open areas on the property and the adjoining public parkway be kept clear of rubbish, litter, and weeds. When needed for safety, additional standards (Sec. 3-13-9(b)) may be imposed: boarding and securing all windows and doors (painted to match the building), fencing the entire perimeter with a minimum 6-foot chain-link or secure fence posted with no-trespassing signs, and operable exterior security lighting front and rear. Compliance is at the sole cost of the responsible party (Sec. 3-13-10). Separately, undeveloped (vacant) parcels in unincorporated Orange County are included on the County Weed Abatement List where hazardous weeds, vegetation, or accumulated rubbish create a fire or health hazard (per the OC Public Works weed-abatement program).