What has changed in Sacramento?   The Front Yard Landscape Ordinance!

Sacramento citizens first became aware of our city's front yard landscape ordinance in April 2004. Read our history - How and why SCSL came together and more . . .

Evidence in support of changing the City Front Yard Landscape Code

Document for City Council Meeting 4-3-07
PowerPoint Presentation for City Council Meeting 4-3-07

Sacramento City Front Yard Landscape Code - Ordinance 17.68.010   (before and after)

Front yard landscape Ordinance 17.68.010/written in 1941
Proposed Ordinance as approved by the Sacramento City Council on 4-3-07
Ordinance No. 2007 - 025 - Official Revision

For more information - Read news/media (articles and radio interview) more . . .

Sacramento's Front Yard Landscape Ordinance

On April 3, 2007, the City Council adopted the new front yard landscape code language that allows for sustainable diverse landscapes, without restricting fruits & veggies!!!

The new Front Yard Landscape Code language states that Sacramento gardeners can grow a diverse landscape of their choice: "The landscape may include grass, annuals, perennials, ground cover, shrubs, trees, and any design elements such as planters, rocks, mulch, or similar elements when integrated as part of the landscape."

This was a great day for Sacramento gardens, for Sacramento gardeners, and for all the residents of our city! 

According to Councilmember Fong, this is a big step for sustainability in our city!

Sacramento has committed to making the city more sustainable.

Valuable city resources are currently being directed towards programs for water conservation, water quality (toxic lawn chemical contamination of our rivers and streams), and green waste management.

City Council's adoption of the new front yard garden code language supports diverse urban landscapes in Sacramento's front yards and will not only help address crucial environmental issues, but will help Sacramento meet its sustainability goals.

Food security and hunger are also factors that can be addressed through home gardens. Homegrown fruit and vegetables can supply needed food that is fresh and nutritious.

Many backyards are unsuitable for growing food due to Sacramento's tree canopy, so the option of front yard gardening is critical.