California Pines CSD Annual Lot Mowing Services – 2026

Important Information for Property Owners

The California Pines Community Services District (CSD) is committed to maintaining the safety, appearance, and overall quality of life within our community. Each year, we conduct a lot mowing program designed to reduce fire hazards, control weed growth, and limit mosquito populations on vacant lots. This article outlines the details for our 2026 lot mowing services, your responsibilities as a property owner, and important payment and contact information.

Program Eligibility and Notification

Owners of all properties within the designated lot mowing area received a letter for each parcel requiring mowing. Please note, not all properties in the subdivision are included in this program. Only parcels located in Lake Unit 1B, Lake Unit 4, and some sections of Lake Unit 1A and 3—specifically those with grass or meadow-type terrain—are subject to the annual mowing requirement. Hill unit properties are not included in this program. Owners are only responsible for paying for the property or properties for which they received a bill or letter.

2026 Lot Mowing Fee and Program Details

For the 2026 season, the lot mowing service charge is $100.00 per parcel. This fee is established in accordance with Ordinance No. XIII and Resolution 2026-A, following the California Health and Safety Code Sections 14875–14922. These laws authorize special districts like ours to require weed abatement for public health and safety benefits.

If you own a property, you can avoid this fee by clearing your lot yourself or by hiring a contractor to do it. All flammable materials must be removed from your lot by June 10, 2026. To opt out of the District’s mowing service, you must notify us of your intent to do the work (or have a contractor do it) by May 15, 2026. We will then inspect your property, and if it meets our standards, the fee will not be charged.

If you notify us but do not complete the work by the June 10 deadline, or if your lot does not pass inspection, the District will complete the mowing after June 15, 2026, and the fee will apply. Alternatively, you may request that the District handle the mowing after June 15 for the regular fee.

District Cleanup Services Timeline

Between June 15 and approximately July 15, 2026, the District will provide cleanup services for all properties not cleared by their owners. The service fee remains $100.00 per parcel. However, additional fees may be assessed for lots requiring substantial debris removal.

Payment Instructions

To pay for your annual lot mowing service, please use our online portal. You will need your Parcel Number (APN), which appears above your name and address on the notice sent by mail. The online system accepts payment for one APN per transaction. If you need to pay for multiple properties, mail a check with a list of APNs. To avoid online transaction fees, checks, money orders, and cash are all accepted at no additional cost.

We accept checks, money orders, or cash—please include your APN (parcel number) with your payment, either by enclosing the top portion of your mailed notice or referencing it on your check. Send payments to:

CalPines CSD
376 County Rd. 71
Alturas, CA 96101

For online payments, use our secure portal. Each transaction is limited to one APN. If you need to pay for multiple parcels, please mail your payment with a list of APNs to avoid online transaction fees.

Contact and Assistance

If you have questions or need help, contact us at (530) 233-2766, email fireprevention@calpinescsd-fire.net, or visit our website. Always provide your parcel number or the property owner’s name with all correspondence.

Collections Policy

Any property with an unpaid balance at the end of the calendar year will be subject to collections. Please note, the District can only accept payments for the current year’s balance. Outstanding amounts from previous years are transferred to a collection agency, and you must pay the agency directly if you receive a notice.

CSD vs. POA – Who to Contact?

The Community Services District (CSD) and the Property Owners Association (POA) are separate organizations. The CSD cannot access POA records or forward calls, payments, or inquiries regarding POA matters. For POA information (annual dues, CC&Rs, or association-specific questions), contact the POA at (530) 233-4801 (Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–1:00 PM) or email calpinespoa750@frontier.com.

Property Tax Assessments

CSD property tax assessments on your tax bill are separate from the lot mowing service fee and are paid directly to the Modoc County Tax Collector. Current annual assessments may include road, water, sewer, garbage service, fire department, and snow removal fees for eligible lots.

We appreciate your attention to these guidelines and your prompt payment, which helps us keep California Pines a safe and beautiful place to live.