Palos Verdes Estates, CA
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2026 Fire Safety Weed Abatement
The City of Palos Verdes Estates is conducting fire safety weed abatement work in 2026 using two different contractors. Fire Grazers, Inc. completed the City’s scheduled goat grazing work this week, and SoCal Brush continues to perform traditional weed abatement services throughout the City.
Dates are subject to change based on weather and site conditions. Updates will be posted on this webpage as available.
Goat Grazing with Fire Grazers, Inc.
The City awarded a contract to Fire Grazers, Inc. at the February 10, 2026, City Council Meeting to perform fire safety weed abatement work using goats throughout the City.
About Goat Grazing
- Temporary electric fencing will be installed around designated grazing areas.
- A herd of goats will be onsite for several days to a few weeks, depending on vegetation density.
- Livestock guardian dogs may be present and are trained to protect the herd—not interact with the public.
- The goats will naturally clear dry brush, grasses, and invasive plant species that contribute to wildfire risk.
Safety & Guidelines
- Please do not feed, touch, or approach the goats.
- Keep a safe distance from fencing and equipment.
- Dogs must be kept on leash and away from grazing areas.
- Please respect all posted signage and barriers.
Benefits of Goat Grazing
- Reduces fire fuel loads in high-risk areas
- Minimizes the need for chemical herbicides
- Improves soil health and biodiversity
- Provides a quiet, low-impact alternative to mechanical clearing
Contact Information
- Engineering Department, engineering@pvestates.org, 951-475-3601 x1
- Fire Grazers, Inc., Michael Choi, vishnu@goatsrock.com, 310-465-9727
Frequently Asked Questions
What is targeted goat grazing?
Targeted goat grazing is a land management practice that uses controlled herds to remove unwanted vegetation such as dry grasses, brush, and invasive weeds. Goats are directed to specific areas to reduce wildfire fuel loads and improve land conditions in a precise and environmentally responsible way.
Why is the City investing in goat grazing as well as traditional methods?
Goat grazing complements conventional methods like mowing, herbicide application, and mechanical clearing. It is particularly effective in areas that are steep, rocky, difficult to access, or environmentally sensitive. It also reduces emissions, noise, and chemical use.
What are “fuel loads” and why are they important?
Fuel loads refer to the amount of dry, flammable vegetation present in an area. High fuel loads increase the likelihood and intensity of wildfires. Goat grazing reduces these fuels, helping to slow fire spread and improve defensible space.
How does the City decide where to use goats?
Sites are selected through a combination of:
- Fire hazard severity zone mapping
- Proximity to homes, infrastructure, and evacuation routes
- Accessibility for equipment vs. grazing suitability
Do goats graze in residential neighborhoods?
In some cases, yes—particularly in greenbelts, drainage areas, and open spaces near homes. Additional safety measures and notifications are used in these locations.
How are the goats cared for?
Goats receive regular access to fresh water, are given supplemental minerals or feed if needed, have veterinary care, and are protected from extreme weather.
How many goats are used at a site?
Herd sizes typically range from 300 to 500+ goats, depending on acreage and vegetation density.
How much vegetation can goats clear?
On average, a single goat can consume 4–6 pounds of vegetation per day. A herd can clear significant areas in a short period, depending on conditions.
How long will grazing take?
Most sites are completed within 3–10 days, though larger or denser areas may require multiple visits.
What types of plants do goats eat?
Goats prefer:
- Broadleaf weeds
- Invasive plants, such as thistle, ivy, and blackberry
- Shrubs and woody vegetation
They may also eat grasses but are especially effective at targeting problem plants.
Will goats remove all vegetation?
No. Grazing is managed to reduce hazardous and invasive growth while maintaining soil stability and supporting healthy ecosystems.
What type of fencing is used?
Temporary electric mesh fencing is installed around grazing areas. It provides a mild deterrent to keep goats contained and protect them from predators.
Is the electric fence dangerous?
No. The fence delivers a brief, low-voltage shock intended to deter contact. It is safe but should not be touched.
Are there staff onsite at all times?
The herd is monitored daily by trained professionals and herding dogs. While a herder may not be physically present at all times, the site is checked regularly.
What are livestock guardian dogs and are they aggressive?
Guardian dogs are trained to protect the herd from predators. They are not pets and may act defensively if they perceive a threat. They should not be approached.
What should I do if a goat escapes?
Do not attempt to capture the animal. Contact the City or the grazing contractor immediately using the posted contact information.
Can residents interact with the goats?
No. For safety and animal welfare reasons, residents should not touch, feed, or approach the goats.
Why can’t I feed the goats?
Human food can make goats sick and disrupt their controlled diet, which is carefully managed for effective vegetation removal.
Can I bring my children to see the goats?
Yes, from a safe distance outside the fence. Children should be supervised at all times.
What precautions should pet owners take?
Keep dogs on leash at all times near grazing areas. Do not allow pets to approach fencing. Avoid provoking or interacting with guardian animals.
Will there be noise?
Noise levels are low. You may occasionally hear goats or guardian dogs, but overall disturbance is minimal.
Will there be odors?
Any odors are mild and temporary, typically dissipating shortly after grazing ends.
Will trails or parks be closed?
Some areas may be temporarily restricted for safety. Signage will be posted with detour information if needed.
Who should I contact with concerns or questions?
Engineering Department, engineering@pvestates.org, 951-475-3601 x1
The City appreciates your cooperation and support in using innovative, sustainable solutions to reduce wildfire risk and maintain healthy landscapes.
Traditional Services with SoCal Brush
SoCal Brush is conducting traditional fire safety weed abatement work throughout the City, including weed abatement, brush/dead shrub removal, trimming trees and shrubs, tree and shrub raising, tree and shrub removal, and trash and debris removal.
Public Notice
Upcoming Contractor Fire Safety Weed Abatement Work – Starting June 1st
The City awarded a contract to SoCal Brush at the February 10, 2026, City Council Meeting to perform fire safety weed abatement work throughout the City. This work includes weed abatement, brush/dead shrub removal, trimming trees and shrubs, tree and shrub raising, tree and shrub removal, trash and debris removal. The working hours are Monday through Friday, from 7:00 am to 4:00 pm, excluding City observed holidays.
The purpose of the weed abatement work is to provide a defensible space in the first 20 feet from property lines, and consists of the following:
- All vegetation listed below adjacent to property lines are to be removed in the first 20 feet from the property line starting at 1 foot from the property line.
- All hedges and continuous plants (some plants may be retained if sufficient spacing in between plants or trees can be created by removing trees or plants, such as removing two ficus trees to keep one ficus tree that is part of a hedge)
- All dead and flammable vegetation and trees
- All invasive plants, weeds and ornamental non-native plants identified as threats to the health and safety of the Parklands.
- Native and ornamental trees and shrubs that are individually planted can be retained provided they are cut back, limbed up and thinned out.
Please note that weed abatement services differ from landscape maintenance services and are performed by different vendors. Weed abatement services have the goal to complete more of a clearing of an area, such as clearance that is needed to reduce flashy fuels and to create spacing between shrubs and trees and reduce fire risk, and weed abatement services are completed once per year. Alternatively, landscape maintenance services are for more manicured and more detailed areas throughout the City and are completed periodically throughout the year.
When the brush clearance activities are underway, there may be “No Parking” signs posted on streets indicating the specific dates work will be performed in the Parklands or public paths near your home. If parking restrictions are required, they will be posted 48 hours prior to the work being performed. During the time crews are present and the work is being performed, access to paths and Parklands may be limited.
- On the day of the brush clearance activities, please be sure to remove your vehicle from the street by the posted time shown on the “No Parking” signs. Observe the date(s) on the signs carefully.
- Please keep windows and doors closed to reduce airborne debris entering the home when the work is being performed.
Dates are subject to change based on weather and site conditions. Updates will be posted on the City website for any changes.
Contact Information
For additional information on the City’s fire safety weed abatement activities, please visit the City’s Fire Safety Weed Abatement webpage.
For questions or concerns, please contact:
- Engineering Department, engineering@pvestates.org, 951-475-3601 x1
- SoCal Brush, Carey Everhart, carey@socalbrush.com, 805-796-0345
Thank you for your cooperation as we work to keep our community safe and sustainable.
Past Fire Safety Weed Abatement Updates
2025 Citywide Fire Safety Weed Abatement
Bay Area Tree Specialists is providing fire safety weed abatement / brush clearance services for the City of Palos Verdes Estates, and the brush clearance is expected to occur from June through September 2025.
The working hours are Monday through Thursday from 7 AM to 7 PM, Friday from 7 AM to 5:30 PM, and Saturday from 9 AM to 5 PM, excluding City observed holidays.
Scope of Work
The purpose of the weed abatement work is to provide a defensible space in the first 20 feet from property lines, and consists of the following:
- All vegetation listed below adjacent to property lines are to be removed in the first 20 feet from the property line starting at 1 foot from the property line.
- All hedges and continuous plants.
- All dead and flammable vegetation and trees.
- All invasive plants, weeds and ornamental non-native plants identified as threats to the health and safety of the Parklands.
- Native and ornamental trees and shrubs that are individually planted can be retained provided they are cut back, limbed up and thinned out.
Please note that weed abatement services differ from landscape maintenance services and are performed by different vendors. Weed abatement services have the goal to complete more of a clearing of an area, such as clearance that is needed to reduce flashy fuels and to create spacing between shrubs and trees and reduce fire risk, and weed abatement services are completed once per year. Alternatively, landscape maintenance services are for more manicured and more detailed areas throughout the City and are completed periodically throughout the year.
No Parking and Closing Your Windows
When the brush clearance activities are underway, there may be “No Parking” signs posted on streets indicating the specific dates work will be performed in the Parklands or public paths near your home. If parking restrictions are required, they will be posted 48 hours prior to the work being performed. During the time crews are present and the work is being performed, access to paths and Parklands may be limited.
- On the day of the brush clearance activities, please be sure to remove your vehicle from the street by the posted time shown on the “No Parking” signs. Observe the date(s) on the signs carefully.
- Please keep windows and doors closed to reduce airborne debris entering the home when the work is being performed.
Contact Information
If you have any further questions, please contact:
Bay Area Tree Specialists
Richard Smith – Project Manager
(408) 466-3469
arrbor1rich@gmail.com
City of Palos Verdes Estates
Engineering Department
951-475-3601 x1
engineering@pvestates.org
March 2025 Fire Safety Weed Abatement and Brush Clearance
Heads up PVE, get ready to see some new landscapers in town! Herds of goats will begin conducting weed abatement in four high-priority areas in the City, starting with Valmonte Canyon on March 13. This comes as a result of the City Council moving forward with key measures to address fire risks in the City.
Goats will begin clearing brush in areas of Palos Verdes Estates as part of an effort funded by the office of Los Angeles County Supervisor Janice Hahn to reduce fire risk on the Palos Verdes Peninsula. 900 goats will be used to conduct weed abatement in 37 acres of Palos Verdes Estates parklands in canyons and hard to reach hillside areas in four zones deemed extremely high priority: Valmonte Canyon and the Palos Verdes stables, Lunada Canyon, the hillside between Via Boronado and Espinosa Circle, and the hillside below Via Pinzon and Mirlo Gate House.
On March 13th, 400 goats will begin clearing brush in Valmonte Canyon which is estimated to take between a week and a week and a half to complete with additional goats placed in the other locations next week. The work is expected to be completed by the end of March.
2024 Fire Safety Weed Abatement and Brush Clearance
Bay Area Tree Specialists has provided fire safety weed abatement / brush clearance services for the City of Palos Verdes Estates. The brush clearance is occurred from July 2024 through October 2024.
If you have any questions about the upcoming weed abatement work, please contact:
Berlyn Pimentel
Engineering Assistant
(310) 750-9821
The purpose of the weed abatement work is to provide a defensible space in the first 20 feet from property lines, and consists of the following:
- All vegetation listed below adjacent to property lines are to be removed in the first 20 feet from the property line starting at 1 foot from the property line.
- All hedges and continuous plants.
- All dead and flammable vegetation and trees.
- All invasive plants, weeds and ornamental non-native plants identified as threats to the health and safety of the Parklands.
- Native and ornamental trees and shrubs that are individually planted can be retained provided they are cut back, limbed up and thinned out.
For information on the details of the clearance categories, please refer to the Frequently Asked Questions document.
Please note that weed abatement services differ from landscape maintenance services and are performed by different vendors. Weed abatement services have the goal to complete more of a clearing of an area, such as clearance that is needed to reduce flashy fuels and to create spacing between shrubs and trees and reduce fire risk, and weed abatement services are completed once per year. Alternatively, landscape maintenance services are for more manicured and more detailed areas throughout the City and are completed periodically throughout the year. For more information on landscape maintenance services, please visit the City’s Landscape Maintenance webpage.
The City is located in a Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone designated by the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection and is susceptible to wildfire risks. To mitigate wildfire risks, brush clearance, and fire breaks are necessary to provide defensible space for structures. To meet this need, the City contracts weed abatement services.
For information on the requirements that the City must adhere to for the weed abatement services, please refer to the Frequently Asked Questions document.
When the brush clearance activities are underway, there may be “No Parking” signs posted on streets indicating the specific dates work will be performed in the Parklands or public paths near your home. Parking restrictions will be posted 48 hours prior to the work being performed. During the time crews are present and the work is being performed, access to paths and Parklands may be limited.
Please help ensure the implementation of the brush clearance activities are successful by observing the following best practices during working hours, which are Monday through Thursday from 7 AM to 7 PM, Friday from 7 AM to 5:30 PM, and Saturday from 9 AM to 5 PM, excluding City observed holidays:
- On the day of the brush clearance activities, please be sure to remove your vehicle from the street by the posted time on the “No Parking” signs. Observe the date(s) on the signs carefully.
- Please keep windows and doors closed to reduce airborne debris entering the home when the work is being performed.