Code Enforcement

Fire Hazards

Read the Code: SMC 10.64.010

What is it?

Owners and occupants of property within the City must remove or destroy all grass; weeds; shrubs; bushes; trees and vegetation growing or which has grown and died; and all debris that is a fire hazard or a detriment to the public health, safety, or welfare. Fire Hazard season is from May 1st – November 1st.

The Fire Official or Code Enforcement Officer considers the following when determining whether or not a site is a fire hazard:

1. Is the situation present during fire season?
2. Has there been a lack of rain for 10 continuous days which has negatively affected the soil moisture content?
3. Has the average air temperature been above 70 degrees Fahrenheit for 10 consecutive days?
4. Is the length of the grass or other vegetative material, whether standing or matted, 10 inches or more?
5. Is the vegetation within 10 feet of a combustible fence or other structure?

What it isn't

The Fire Hazard code doesn't cover vegetation that is less than 10 inches in length, vegetation that is too sparse to spread fire, times of the year where consecutive days of 70 degrees or hotter have not occurred, it does not cover vegetation that is not within 10 feet of a combustible structure.

If there is debris, it must be of considerable dryness and flammability to be able to combust and spread. Most cases of debris are not dealt with as a fire hazard but as a solid waste issue.

Fines and Abatement

1. The City may cause the removal or destruction of such vegetation and debris by notice of violation and, as appropriate in each case:
   1. Issuance of a class 1 civil infraction for the violation.
   2. Direct action by City forces or contract, the cost of which will be billed to the owners of the property or as a utility service to the property. Fees for fire hazard abatement are contained in SMC 8.02.0616.