Amador County, CA Property Maintenance: Weeds & Overgrown Grass (2026)

Amador County's weed and vegetation rules are about wildfire safety, not lawn appearance. Chapter 7.30 (adopted 2022) was enacted under California Health and Safety Code sections 14930 and 14931 and Government Code sections 25845 and 25845.5, and declares that all hazardous vegetation or combustible material located on real property within the unincorporated area is a public nuisance. 'Hazardous vegetation' is defined as vegetation that is flammable and endangers public safety by creating a fire hazard, including but not limited to seasonal and recurrent weeds, stubble, brush, and dry leaves; 'combustible material' means rubbish, litter, or other flammable material that creates a fire hazard. It is the duty of every owner, occupant, and person in control of any improved parcel in the unincorporated territory to abate that material. Fuel-management intensity varies within a 100-foot perimeter of a structure, with the most intense requirements in the first 30 feet, and compliance is required throughout the year. The enforcement official is the fire chief of the Amador Fire Protection District (or designee) and other officers designated by the Board. A Hazardous Vegetation Abatement Hearing Board hears disputes. Abatement costs the County incurs — physical abatement, administrative and staff time, and contractor costs — can be recovered and placed as a lien on the property. Standard defensible-space (100 feet) also applies in CAL FIRE State Responsibility Areas under state law.