Vineyard Owners Who Neglect Their Grape Crops Could Be Fined Under New Law

CBS Bay Area

January 8, 2026

The New Year always brings a new crop of state laws, and one of them, Assembly Bill 732, offers a way to protect the health of Bay Area wine grapes. But the law is also an indicator of the poor health of the industry itself, as some producers look for a way to put the dream of that perfect vintage on hold.

Planting a vineyard in the Bay Area can cost between $30,000 and $80,000 per acre, but some are choosing to just leave them sit rather than pay to maintain them. But that can cause disease and pest problems for their neighbors, so the State passed AB 732, giving counties the power to fine the owners of neglected vineyards from $500 to $1,000 per acre if they don't take care of them.

This year, Sonoma County Ag Commissioner Andrew Smith said the tough economic climate for the wine industry is forcing growers to make tough choices.

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