A recent report discusses the enforcement of Ordinance Section 4-11-1065 addressing weeds, grass and combustible materials either growing or accumulating upon private property, due to concerns of summer fires.
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Tulare County
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Weed control required in county areas

If hazardous conditions at home do not cause fires this summer, they will cause fines for property owners.

According to Tulare County Ordinance Section 4-11-1065, all weeds, grass and combustible materials either growing or accumulating upon private property must be removed if there is potential to create a fire hazard.

California Department of Forestry/Tulare County Fire Department Chief Ed Wristen warns residents that refusal to abate a fire hazard could result in a fine up to $500 and/or the county cleaning the property at the owner's expense.

If the county is forced to clean a property, there is a mandatory $261 administrative charge added to the contractor's cost for the clean up.

People living in the mountains and foothills realize the danger of fire during the hot, dry summer months. Fires starting in the grass or brush can spread to homes or property in a matter of minutes, said a Fire Department news release.

Property owners on the Valley floor are not immune from fires of this type.

Wristen also cautions residents to make sure and use special caution when operating equipment in dry grass and to have the proper tools on hand. Also, make sure all internal combustible engines are equipped with a working spark arrester.

Tulare County Fire Department Fire Hazard Abatement Officer Penny Green said Fire Department personnel are now making field inspections.

Residents found to be in violation of the county ordinance will be allowed 15 business days to clean up the property and remove all fire hazards.

For additional information on the abatement ordinance or tool requirement when operating equipment on or near vegetation covered land, contact your local Tulare County station or the Fire Prevention Bureau at 732-5954.