Clark County, WA Property Maintenance: Vacant Lot Maintenance (2026)
Key Facts
- Junk/debris rule
- CCC 9.24.010 applies
- Weed duty
- RCW 17.10.140
- Weed program
- County Noxious Weed Control
- Dumping reports
- Clark County Public Health
- Applies to
- Occupied and vacant lots
Summary
Owners of vacant lots must keep them free of accumulated junk and debris under CCC 9.24.010 and must control noxious weeds under state law RCW 17.10.140. Neglected vacant parcels are abated the same as occupied nuisance properties.
The outside storage of abandoned, discarded or unused objects or equipment, including but not limited to tires, household furniture, stoves, refrigerators and freezers, which are visible from an adjacent property or road.
Full Breakdown
A vacant lot is not exempt from the county nuisance code. CCC 9.24.010 prohibits accumulations of waste, rubbish, abandoned objects, and inoperable vehicles visible from an adjacent property or road, whether or not the lot is occupied. Separately, Washington's noxious weed law RCW 17.10.140 makes every owner responsible for eradicating Class A weeds and controlling designated Class B and C weeds on their land, enforced locally through the Clark County Noxious Weed Control Program. Illegal dumping on a vacant lot is reported to Clark County Public Health.
Violations & Fines
Nuisance abatement under CCC 9.24 with notice and cleanup deadline; the county may abate and lien costs. Weed violations follow RCW 17.10 enforcement by the county weed board.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do nuisance rules apply to empty lots?
Who handles dumping on my vacant lot?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Clark County
Compare Clark County to another location·View the Washington property maintenance overview
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