Rancho Cordova, CA Environmental Rules: Defensible Space (2026)
Key Facts
- Clearance required
- 30 feet from structures, fences, vehicles, storage
- Governing section
- RCMC § 17.12.060
- Enforcing agencies
- City code enforcement or Sacramento Metro Fire District
- Appeal window
- 15 days after abatement notice
- Cost recovery
- Unpaid costs become a lien after 30 days
Summary
Rancho Cordova requires a 30-foot firebreak around every structure: Municipal Code Section 17.12.060 orders dry grass, brush, vines and other dry vegetation cleared for at least 30 feet from structures, combustible fences, vehicles and combustible storage, with the enforcement official empowered to demand a wider clearance where terrain warrants it.
All dry grass, brush, vines or other dry vegetation shall be cleared for an area of not less than 30 feet from all structures, combustible fences, vehicles and combustible storage. The enforcement official may require additional clearances when topographical or geographical conditions warrant said action.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: rev 4660102; v2 updated 2026-03-02; through 03-02-2026).
Full Breakdown
010). 060 is the operative defensible-space rule: it requires dry grass, brush, vines or other dry vegetation cleared for not less than 30 feet from all structures, combustible fences, vehicles and combustible storage, and lets the enforcement official demand additional clearance where topography or geography make 30 feet insufficient. 070, though they cannot enter a dwelling itself. 085; filing a timely appeal halts abatement unless the vegetation presents an imminent fire hazard within 100 feet of a structure. 1.
Violations & Fines
Failing to maintain the required 30-foot clearance is enforced first through an abatement notice giving the property owner a chance to clear the vegetation or appeal within 15 days. If the owner does not comply and the city or Sacramento Metropolitan Fire District performs the clearance, the property owner is billed the actual removal cost plus prorated administrative costs for inspection, notice and contract administration; unpaid bills become a recorded nuisance-abatement lien against the parcel after 30 days.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much defensible space must Rancho Cordova property owners clear?
Who enforces the firebreak requirement?
What happens if I don't clear the vegetation after getting a notice?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Rancho Cordova
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Defensible Space in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Sacramento County handle defensible space.