The recent warmer weather and rain is helping weeds to grow fast in Sacramento, but soon they will dry out causing them to be a fire hazard. The City is reminding property owners to eliminate tall weeds or face City Code violations.

There are currently over 3,000 weed abatement cases open in the city. If lots become overgrown with dry weeds, it can pose a significant fire hazard. Grass fires can spread quickly from a vacant lot or property to an adjacent residential neighborhood.

City Code Enforcement will begin inspections of overgrown parcels after the April 15 deadline to comply. All known vacant lot parcels have been mailed a courtesy reminder notice.

“It is a property owners’ responsibility to maintain their parcel of land throughout the year, especially during fire season, which is April through October,” said Supervising Code Enforcement Officer John Sorrels. “We encourage property owners to be good neighbors and follow suggested maintenance to avoid dangers and penalty fees.”

Here’s what property owners need to know to help keep the community safe:

• If you own vacant, undeveloped property, then it is your responsibility to maintain the condition of that property.
• The deadline for mowing, disking, and/or clearing vacant lots is April 15. The City requires the same deadline every year.
• To avoid penalties and fees, property owners must cut weeds or disk their property. Weeds cannot exceed 12 inches in height. Disking is the preferable method to maintain properties as it prevents weed growth for a longer period of time.
• Properties with weeds at a height of 12-inches or higher may be cited. Inspections of properties generally begin mid-May depending on weather conditions and will be ongoing through the fire season, typically through October.

Residents may report overgrown weeds on a property by contacting 311. Penalties for non-compliance can be up to $1,500.

For more information, call (916) 808-2633 or visit the weed abatement web page.