Weeds are a fire and health hazard, especially during certain times of the year. The City of Pacifica has established a weed abatement program in which certain public areas of the city are trimmed and cleaned by the park and street divisions. These areas are abated on a seasonal basis, with some locations put on a routine maintenance schedule. Weed trimmers, mowers, hand equipment and in some cases larger equipment are used in the abatement process.

In April, the city's public works department typically begins its annual weed abatement program. Eighty percent of the work is removed mechanically (by tractor mower), with the remaining 20 percent removed by hand crews.

Weed removal is required by state and local law. Property owners are required to keep their property weed free, especially the front and side yards of homes abutting sidewalks. Vacant lots must also be kept free of weeds. Weed abatement is handled by the code enforcement division. Weeds on public or private property can be reported to code enforcement at 650-738-7343.

Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Policy

The City of Pacifica, to protect the health and safety of its employees and the general public, the environment and water quality, as well as to provide sustainable solutions for pest control through the reduced use of pesticides on property including buildings owned or managed by the City by applying Integrated Pesticide Management principles and techniques.