Environmental Rules in Sacramento County, CA (2026)

4 county-level rules, plus city-specific rules for 7 cities in Sacramento County, California.

Verified from official government sources

Note: These county rules apply to unincorporated areas of Sacramento County. If you live within an incorporated city, that city's own rules apply — see the city list below.

Stormwater Management

Sacramento County operates under a joint NPDES MS4 Permit (R5-2016-0040) with the City of Sacramento and other co-permittees. County Code Chapter 15.12 implements stormwater pollution prevention. New and redevelopment projects over 1 acre (or smaller in some cases) must comply with Post-Construction Stormwater Standards including LID and hydromodification controls.

Environmental: Stormwater

Heavy Restrictions

Full ordinance details →Official source ↗

Erosion Control

Sacramento County requires erosion and sediment control BMPs on all grading and construction sites. County Code Chapter 16.44 implements the Grading, Erosion, and Sediment Control Ordinance. Wet-season (October 1 to April 30) requires enhanced measures including stabilization of disturbed areas. Violations can stop work and trigger penalties.

Environmental: Erosion Control

Heavy Restrictions

Full ordinance details →Official source ↗

Flood Zones

Large portions of Sacramento County lie within FEMA Special Flood Hazard Areas including Natomas, the Pocket, Delta communities, and areas along the American and Sacramento Rivers. SAFCA manages regional levee improvements. CA SB 5 requires 200-year flood protection for urban development in Central Valley. County Code Chapter 27.10 is the Floodplain Management Ordinance.

Environmental: Flood Zones

Heavy Restrictions

Full ordinance details →Official source ↗

Grading & Drainage

Sacramento County grading regulated under County Code Chapter 16.44. Permits required for earthwork exceeding 50 cu yd, cuts/fills over specified depths, or work on steep slopes. Drainage must not be diverted onto neighboring properties. County drainage standards follow the Sacramento County Improvement Standards and Hydrology Manual.