Moving to Perris, CA?
Here are the local rules you need to know before you unpack.
Every city has its own set of local ordinances that go beyond state and federal law. From when you can mow your lawn to whether you can park your RV in the driveway, these rules affect daily life in ways most people do not expect. This guide covers the key ordinances in Perris across 18 categories and 100 specific rules we track.
๐ Noise OrdinancesFull noise ordinances guide โ
Noise rules affect everything from weekend parties to lawn care schedules. Quiet hours, construction restrictions, and barking dog limits vary widely between cities.
Quiet Hours
Some RestrictionsThe City of Perris has no single bright-line 'curfew' clock, but Perris Municipal Code Chapter 7.34 (Noise Control) sets nighttime amplified-sound limits of 60 dBA between 10:01 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. (versus 80 dBA daytime) and broadly prohibits loud noise that disturbs a residential neighborhood. This is the city's own code, separate from Riverside County's ordinance.
Construction Hours
Some RestrictionsPerris Municipal Code section 7.34.060 bans construction, demolition, excavation, alteration or repair noise between 7:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m., and all day on Sundays and most legal holidays. Construction activity may not exceed 80 dBA in residential zones. This is the City of Perris's own rule, distinct from Riverside County's construction-hour limits.
Barking Dogs
Some RestrictionsPerris adopted a dedicated Noisy Animals chapter (Perris Municipal Code Chapter 8.05, Ord. No. 1380, 2019) creating an administrative abatement process for animals whose excessive, unrelenting or habitual barking, howling or crying disturbs neighbors. The older noise chapter (7.34.080(3)) also treats animal noise that disturbs nearby residents as a violation. These are the city's own rules.
Leaf Blower Rules
Some RestrictionsPerris Municipal Code section 7.34.080(7) specifically regulates leaf blowers. They may not be operated in residential-zoned areas between 7:00 p.m. and 8:00 a.m. on weekdays or between 5:00 p.m. and 9:00 a.m. on weekends and legal holidays, and may not exceed 80 decibels measured at 50 feet. This is the city's own ordinance.
Amplified Music & Events
Some RestrictionsPerris Municipal Code section 7.34.040 limits amplified sound (only music or the human voice are permitted) to 80 dBA from 7:01 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. and 60 dBA from 10:01 p.m. to 7:00 a.m., measured at or beyond the property line. Loudspeakers and similar devices that disturb the peace are separately prohibited under 7.34.080(2). These are city rules.
Vehicle Noise
Some RestrictionsPerris Municipal Code section 7.34.100 regulates off-highway vehicle noise by reference to California Vehicle Code section 23130's 45-mph-or-less limits, with a distance-correction table. Section 7.34.080(1) bans unnecessary horn and signaling-device use. On public roads, California Vehicle Code noise standards apply statewide. Perris's off-highway rule supplements state law.
Decibel Limits
Some RestrictionsPerris Municipal Code Chapter 7.34 sets measurable decibel limits: amplified sound at the property line is capped at 80 dBA daytime (7:01 a.m.-10:00 p.m.) and 60 dBA nighttime (10:01 p.m.-7:00 a.m.); residential construction at 80 dBA; leaf blowers at 80 dB at 50 feet. Exceeding ambient by more than 1.0 dB presumes a violation.
Outdoor Music
Some RestrictionsOutdoor music in Perris is governed by the same amplified-sound limits in Perris Municipal Code section 7.34.040 (80 dBA daytime, 60 dBA nighttime at the property line) and the loudspeaker prohibition in 7.34.080(2). Music in public parks and parking lots needs prior written city approval and must stay within those limits under 7.34.080(6). This is the city's own framework.
Industrial Noise
Some RestrictionsPerris regulates industrial noise both through the general dBA limits of Perris Municipal Code Chapter 7.34 and through zoning performance standards in section 19.44.070, which require any industrial use that may generate noise in the 7:00 p.m.-7:00 a.m. evening window to submit a noise assessment and mitigation plan. Off-site vibration is prohibited.
Aircraft Noise
Some RestrictionsAircraft noise is federally preempted, so Perris sets no in-flight noise limits. Instead, Perris Municipal Code Chapter 19.51 (March ARB/IP Airport Overlay Zone) regulates noise-sensitive land use near the airport, requiring new sensitive uses to attenuate interior aircraft noise to no more than CNEL 40 dB. Perris Valley skydiving operations fall under FAA rules.
๐ Short-Term RentalsFull short-term rentals guide โ
If you plan to rent out your home on Airbnb or VRBO - even occasionally - you need to know the local STR rules before listing.
Permit Requirements
Some RestrictionsThe City of Perris allows short-term rentals but requires the owner to obtain a short-term rental business license before renting a dwelling for 27 or fewer consecutive nights. The rule is Perris's own Chapter 5.38, added by Ordinance 1374 in 2018; it is not Riverside County's STR certificate.
Registration Rules
Some RestrictionsPerris STR hosts register by applying to the City for a short-term rental business license under Section 5.38.050, providing owner and agent contacts, a 24-hour emergency contact within 25 miles, and proof of a valid transient occupancy tax registration. The license runs one year; renewals may be filed at least 60 days before expiration.
Taxes & Fees
Some RestrictionsShort-term rentals in the City of Perris must collect a 10% transient occupancy tax (TOT) on the rent under Chapter 3.24 of the Perris Municipal Code. The owner must hold a valid TOT registration as a condition of the STR license and must collect and remit the tax. Application fees for the STR license are set by city council resolution.
Occupancy Limits
Some RestrictionsThe City of Perris caps short-term rental occupancy at two persons per bedroom plus two additional persons. The primary guest must be an adult 18 or older, and transients may not stay longer than 27 consecutive days (with exceptions for military personnel and displaced individuals). These limits are set by Perris Section 5.38.080, not by county rules.
Night Caps
Some RestrictionsPerris does NOT impose an annual night cap limiting how many nights per year a property may be rented. The only stay limit is per-booking: a short-term rental is 1 to 27 consecutive nights, and transients may not stay longer than 27 consecutive days, except for military personnel and displaced individuals. A property may host an unlimited number of such stays if licensed.
Parking Rules
Some RestrictionsThe City of Perris limits short-term rental guest vehicles to one per bedroom for a one-bedroom unit, or a maximum of two vehicles for units with two or more bedrooms. The director may approve more vehicles where unusual size or physical characteristics warrant it. These caps come from Perris Section 5.38.080, not the county.
Noise Rules
Some RestrictionsPerris short-term rental owners must ensure guests do not violate the city's noise rules, and must take corrective action within 24 hours of being notified of a problem. The rental is for overnight lodging only - no parties or events. The city's general noise control standards in Chapter 7.34 apply, including a 60 dBA limit on amplified sound from 10:01 p.m. to 7:00 a.m.
Primary-Residence-Only Rule
Few RestrictionsThe City of Perris does NOT require a short-term rental to be the host's primary residence or to be owner-occupied. Chapter 5.38 ties the license to the property owner and allows a designated agent, but contains no owner-occupancy or primary-residence mandate. Non-owner-occupied (whole-home) rentals are permitted if licensed and compliant.
Host Presence Rule
Some RestrictionsPerris does not require the host to be present during stays, but Section 5.38.080 requires a 24-hour emergency contact located within a 25-mile radius of the rental who can respond to problems, and the owner must take corrective action within 24 hours of notice of a violation. This local-contact duty - not on-site hosting - is how the city manages absentee rentals.
Insurance Requirements
Few RestrictionsThe City of Perris does NOT require liability insurance as a condition of a short-term rental business license. Chapter 5.38 sets licensing, tax, occupancy, parking, noise, and local-contact duties, but contains no insurance or indemnification mandate. Hosts should still confirm coverage with their own insurer, as platform or lender policies may require it independently.
๐ฅ Fire RegulationsFull fire regulations guide โ
Fire pit rules, fireworks restrictions, and brush clearance requirements are especially important if you are coming from a state with different fire risk profiles.
Fireworks
Heavy RestrictionsAll fireworks are illegal in the City of Perris, including state-approved 'Safe and Sane' fireworks and sparklers. Perris is not one of the handful of Riverside County cities (Blythe, Coachella, Desert Hot Springs, Indio) that permit Safe and Sane sales. Violators face fines and possible arrest, enforced by CAL FIRE/Riverside County Fire and the Sheriff.
Smoke Detectors
Some RestrictionsPerris does not appear to have a separate local smoke-alarm ordinance; requirements come from California law and the building and fire codes the city adopts in Title 20. State law requires working smoke alarms in all dwellings used for sleeping and carbon-monoxide alarms in homes with a fuel-burning appliance, fireplace or attached garage, with landlords responsible for rentals.
Fire Pit Rules
Some RestrictionsRecreational fires and outdoor fire pits in Perris are governed by the California Fire Code, which the city adopts through Title 20 of the Perris Municipal Code and enforces with CAL FIRE/Riverside County Fire. The Fire Code allows small recreational fires and approved portable outdoor fireplaces but sets clearance distances from structures and requires constant attendance.
Backyard Fires
Some RestrictionsSmall backyard recreational fires are allowed in Perris under the California Fire Code (adopted in Title 20), but burning trash, leaves or yard waste is not. Recreational fires must burn clean fuel, stay 25 feet from structures, be constantly attended, and have extinguishing means on hand. South Coast AQMD no-burn days override these rules.
Outdoor Burning
Heavy RestrictionsOpen outdoor burning of trash and yard waste is effectively prohibited in Perris. Any open burning requires a permit from the fire code official under the California Fire Code (adopted in Title 20), and South Coast AQMD limits burning to permissive burn days and issues mandatory no-burn orders. Routine backyard burning of leaves, debris or rubbish is not allowed.
Propane Storage
Some RestrictionsPropane (LP-gas) storage in Perris is regulated by the California Fire Code, adopted in Title 20 of the Perris Municipal Code and enforced by CAL FIRE/Riverside County Fire. Small barbecue and patio-heater cylinders are allowed for home use, but larger aggregate quantities and commercial LP-gas storage trigger permit, location and clearance requirements under California Fire Code Chapter 61.
Brush Clearance
Some RestrictionsPerris property owners must clear hazardous and flammable vegetation, including dry weeds and tumbleweeds, from their lots. Clearance is enforced through the CAL FIRE/Riverside County Fire Department's Hazard Reduction program (Ordinances 695 and 772) and the city's own weed/vegetation nuisance rules. Owners get a Notice to Abate and typically 30 days to comply before the agency abates and bills them.
Wildfire Zones
Some RestrictionsMost of Perris is flat valley, but the city does have mapped Fire Hazard Severity Zones in its Local Responsibility Area, and the City of Perris publishes an official FHSZ map so residents can check their address. Properties in higher-hazard zones face defensible-space and Wildland-Urban Interface building requirements. Confirm any parcel on the city's or CAL FIRE's map.
๐ Parking RulesFull parking rules guide โ
Parking rules catch more new residents off guard than almost any other ordinance. RV storage, overnight parking bans, and driveway regulations vary significantly.
EV Charging
Few RestrictionsResearch of the Perris Municipal Code found no city-specific ordinance penalizing parking in an EV charging space; this is governed by California law. California Vehicle Code 22511 lets agencies designate EV-charging-only spaces and makes a non-charging vehicle in a posted EV space subject to citation. New EV stations are built under the California Green Building Standards Code and Chapter 19.69.
RV & Boat Parking
Some RestrictionsPerris is an incorporated city, so Riverside County's recreational-vehicle parking ordinance (Ord. 413) does NOT control inside city limits. The City of Perris regulates RVs, boats, and trailers through its own Municipal Code (Title 10 Vehicles and Traffic, Title 19 Zoning) and enforces on-street limits through Code Enforcement and Police.
Street Parking Limits
Some RestrictionsOn-street parking in Perris is governed by the city's own Perris Municipal Code, Title 10. Chapter 10.32 covers stopping, standing and parking, and Section 10.12.160 lists prohibited places. The biggest day-to-day restriction is street sweeping: parking is prohibited 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. on each route's posted sweeping days. Police and Municipal Enforcement Services enforce.
Overnight Parking
Some RestrictionsPerris has no citywide blanket overnight on-street ban for standard passenger cars. Instead, overnight parking is shaped by the street-sweeping prohibition (8 a.m. to 3 p.m. on posted days), the prohibited-parking locations in Perris Municipal Code 10.12.160, and the 72-hour storage limit (CA Vehicle Code 22651(k)). Commercial and oversized vehicles face separate, stricter rules.
Oversized Vehicle Parking
Heavy RestrictionsIn Perris, oversized and heavy vehicles are governed by Perris Municipal Code Chapter 10.40 (Truck Routes) and Chapter 10.42 (commercial-vehicle parking). Ordinance 1413 (2022) amended Chapter 10.40 so vehicles over five tons gross weight must use one of 15 designated, signed truck routes. Chapter 10.42 limits where large vehicles, trailers, and semitrailers may park, with a permit process.
Commercial Vehicle Restrictions
Heavy RestrictionsAs a logistics hub, Perris regulates commercial trucks tightly. Perris Municipal Code Chapter 10.42 restricts where commercial vehicles, trailers, and semitrailers may park, with limited exceptions (Section 10.42.020) and a police-chief permit process (Section 10.42.030). Separately, Chapter 10.40 (amended by Ordinance 1413, 2022) confines trucks over five tons to 15 designated truck routes.
Abandoned Vehicles
Some RestrictionsPerris abates abandoned, wrecked, dismantled, or inoperative vehicles under its own Perris Municipal Code, Title 7 (Health and Welfare), Chapter 7.30 Abandoned Vehicles, which sets a notice-and-hearing abatement process (Sections 7.30.080 and 7.30.130). On public streets, a vehicle left 72 or more consecutive hours may be removed under California Vehicle Code 22651(k). Code Enforcement handles complaints.
Driveway Rules
Some RestrictionsPerris regulates driveways and parking surfaces through its Zoning Code (Title 19, Chapter 19.69 Parking and Loading Standards). California Vehicle Code 22500 prohibits parking that blocks a public sidewalk or driveway. On residential lots, the City's parking standards govern required surfaces and where vehicles may be kept; blocking a sidewalk is enforced by Police and Code Enforcement.
Loading Zones
Some RestrictionsPerris addresses loading in two ways: off-street loading is required at developments under Perris Municipal Code Chapter 19.69 (Parking and Loading Standards, including Section 19.69.040 Loading), and on-street loading-zone curb markings follow California Vehicle Code 21458. Yellow curbs allow loading/unloading during posted hours; white curbs allow brief passenger loading. Police and Municipal Enforcement Services cite vehicles parked in unauthorized locations.
Curb Color Rules
Some RestrictionsCurb colors in Perris carry the meanings set by California Vehicle Code 21458, which applies citywide: red = no parking; yellow = loading only during posted hours; white = brief passenger loading; green = limited-time parking; blue = disabled parking. Only the City may authorize official curb markings; unauthorized resident curb painting is unenforceable and may itself be a violation.
๐งฑ Fence RegulationsFull fence regulations guide โ
Planning to put up a fence? Height limits, material restrictions, and permit requirements differ by city - and sometimes by which side of the property the fence sits on.
Permit Requirements
Some RestrictionsThe City of Perris Building Department reviews fence and wall work for compliance with zoning height limits and structural standards. Block (masonry) walls require a building permit and footing, rebar, and final inspections. The city publishes a standard block-wall design and a site-plan example through Development Services at 135 N. D Street.
Height Limits
Some RestrictionsThe City of Perris caps residential walls, fences, and hedges at 6 feet in interior side and rear yards. In the front yard, only 3 feet of solid fencing is allowed; heights to 5 feet are permitted if the portion above 3 feet is at least 50 percent open. Commercial fencing may reach 12 feet.
Retaining Walls
Some RestrictionsThe City of Perris publishes a standard plan for a block wall atop a 2-foot retaining wall and requires footing, rebar, and final inspections for masonry work. Under the California Building Code the city enforces, retaining walls over 4 feet (measured from the bottom of the footing) require a building permit.
Neighbor Fence Rules
Some RestrictionsPerris zoning sets fence heights, but shared boundary fences between neighbors are governed by California Civil Code 841, the 'Good Neighbor Fence' law. Adjoining owners are presumed to share equally in the reasonable cost of building, maintaining, or replacing a dividing fence, and 30 days' written notice is required before incurring costs.
Material Restrictions
Heavy RestrictionsPerris restricts fence and wall materials in residential zones. Section 19.02.040 prohibits barbed wire, plain wire, corrugated metal, electrically charged fences, exposed plain PCC concrete, plywood (including T-111), and chain link. Approved materials include masonry, stone, brick, slump block, stucco, wood, and block/wrought-iron combinations.
Fence Requirements
Some RestrictionsBeyond height, Perris requires fences to preserve corner visibility and meet design standards. Zoning Code Section 19.02.050 bars fences, walls, hedges, and retaining walls from the corner sight triangle (15-foot sides) between 42 inches and 8 feet in height. Multi-family developments must be fully fenced and gated around the perimeter.
Approved Materials
Some RestrictionsPerris specifies which fence and wall materials are acceptable. Section 19.02.040 permits split-face masonry, stone and stone veneer, brick, slump block, stucco, wood, and block/wrought-iron combinations in residential zones. Commercial and public-facing walls must use decorative materials such as block or wrought iron.
๐ Animal OrdinancesFull animal ordinances guide โ
Pet owners and aspiring chicken keepers should check local animal ordinances before signing a lease or closing on a home.
Dog Leash Laws
Some RestrictionsPerris Municipal Code Section 8.02.050 requires dogs on public streets, alleys and public property to be on a substantial chain or leash not exceeding six feet, held by a competent person. On private property a dog must be confined by fence, wall, chain or leash. Section 8.02.060 requires a leash on school, park and municipal golf course property.
Chickens & Livestock
Some RestrictionsPerris Municipal Code Section 8.01.090 allows small fowl (chickens, ducks, geese, turkeys, peacocks) only on lots of at least 20,000 square feet, capped at five small animals or fowl combined and kept 150 feet from any occupied neighboring residence. Roosters are separately restricted, and no animal may be kept within 100 feet of another residence (Section 8.01.290).
Pet Limits
Some RestrictionsPerris Municipal Code Section 8.02.040 limits a residence or parcel to a maximum of four dogs and four cats (each four months or older) unless the property is permitted as a kennel or cattery. Five or more dogs is a 'dog kennel' and four or more cats is a 'cattery' under Section 8.01.010, requiring separate permitting.
Breed Restrictions
Few RestrictionsThe City of Perris does not ban or restrict any specific dog breed. Chapter 8.04 of the Perris Municipal Code regulates potentially dangerous, dangerous and vicious animals based on an individual animal's behavior, not its breed. California Food and Agricultural Code Section 31683 prohibits cities from declaring a dog dangerous based solely on breed.
Beekeeping
Some RestrictionsThe Perris Municipal Code does not contain any beekeeping or apiary provisions in its Title 8 animal code, so hives are not separately regulated as 'animals.' Beekeeping is governed by the city zoning code and by California Food and Agricultural Code Section 29040, which requires every beekeeper to register their apiary annually with the Riverside County Agricultural Commissioner.
Livestock
Some RestrictionsPerris Municipal Code Section 8.01.090 allows large animals (horses, cattle, sheep, goats, swine, llamas, donkeys, mules) only on lots of at least 20,000 square feet, 150 feet from any occupied neighboring residence, with density limits of two per 20,000 sq ft, three per 30,000 sq ft, and four per acre. Most large livestock are limited to RA or A1 zoning.
Exotic Pets
Heavy RestrictionsPerris Municipal Code Section 8.01.270 prohibits keeping any exotic animal, venomous or dangerous reptile or arachnid, or carnivorous wild animal unless zoning specifically allows it or a state agency permits it. Section 8.01.090 also prohibits keeping exotic animals such as elephants. Animal control may impound and humanely dispose of such animals after three working days.
Cat Rules
Some RestrictionsPerris Municipal Code Section 8.02.020 makes it unlawful to allow an unspayed or unaltered cat four months or older to be outdoors. Section 8.02.100 requires all cats over 12 months to be spayed/neutered, and Section 8.02.190 requires microchipping. Cat licensing is optional (Section 8.02.030). The cat limit is four per parcel (Section 8.02.040), and Section 8.02.210 regulates cat trapping.
Wildlife Feeding
Some RestrictionsThe Perris Municipal Code Title 8 does not contain a dedicated ordinance banning the feeding of wildlife such as coyotes. Feeding that attracts nuisance wildlife is addressed indirectly through the sanitary-condition and nuisance provisions of the animal code, and California Fish and Game Commission regulations (14 CCR 251.3) prohibit intentionally feeding big game like deer.
Animal Hoarding
Heavy RestrictionsPerris addresses hoarding through its pet-number caps (Section 8.02.040: four dogs and four cats), its cruelty and sanitary provisions (Chapter 8.03), and incorporation of California Penal Code Section 597.1. Keeping animals in unsanitary, neglected or cruel conditions allows City of Perris Animal Control to impound the animals after notice and a hearing.
๐ฟ Landscaping RulesFull landscaping rules guide โ
From grass height limits to tree removal permits, landscaping rules can surprise new homeowners, especially in drought-prone areas with water restrictions.
Grass Height Limits
Some RestrictionsPerris does not set a numeric grass-height limit for ordinary residential yards. Front-yard and street-visible landscaping must be maintained (no overgrown, dead, or missing vegetation) under Chapter 7.42. On weed-abatement parcels, grasses must be cut to no more than six inches under PMC 7.08.045.
Water Restrictions
Heavy RestrictionsPerris water customers are now served by Eastern Municipal Water District (EMWD). EMWD's permanent rules limit irrigation to 9 p.m.-6 a.m., cap unattended sprinkler stations at 15 minutes, ban runoff, hosing pavement, and watering within 48 hours of rain. EMWD's contingency plan can mandate 2 watering days/week (Jun-Aug) and 1 day/week (Sep-May).
Tree Removal & Heritage Trees
Some RestrictionsPerris protects public and certain private trees under Chapter 19.71. Mature backyard trees are exempt, but front-yard and street trees are protected. Removing a public, heritage, or protected tree requires city/arborist review (PMC 19.71.090, 19.71.100). Hazardous-tree removals need a city arborist recommendation and replanting within 45 days.
Composting
Some RestrictionsPerris implements California's SB 1383 organic-waste law through PMC Chapter 7.17, which requires residents and businesses to separate organic waste (food scraps and yard/green waste) for collection. Backyard home composting is allowed and encouraged as a way to keep organics out of the landfill; the green-cart program is mandatory.
Tree Trimming
Some RestrictionsPerris addresses tree trimming through its Urban Forestry chapter (PMC 19.71) for public and protected trees, and through weed/fire abatement (PMC 7.08.045), which requires trees on abatement parcels to be trimmed clear of their trunk at least eight feet above ground. Crown-raising and crown-reduction standards for street trees are defined in code.
Weed Ordinances
Heavy RestrictionsPerris Chapter 7.08 declares weeds, dry grasses, dead shrubs/trees, and rubbish that pose a fire hazard or nuisance unlawful. Abatement standards (PMC 7.08.045) require grasses cut to six inches, trees trimmed eight feet above grade, clearing of tumbleweeds, and (on larger parcels) 100-foot firebreaks. The city can abate and bill the owner.
Native Plants
Some RestrictionsPerris encourages and, for new/rehabilitated landscapes, effectively requires water-wise, low-water-use planting under Chapter 19.70. The code caps landscape water demand at 70% of reference ET, requires water-wise plants on slopes, limits front-yard turf to 70% of planting area, and bars invasive species listed in the Western Riverside MSHCP.
Rainwater Harvesting
Few RestrictionsPerris has no ordinance restricting residential rain barrels, and the city's landscape code encourages capturing rainfall. Under California's Rainwater Capture Act of 2012, rooftop rainwater collection for outdoor non-potable use needs no state water-right permit, and rain barrels/cisterns under 360 gallons generally need no building or plumbing permit.
Artificial Turf
Some RestrictionsPerris has no standalone artificial-turf ban, and synthetic turf can help meet the city's water-efficient landscape goals. Installations are reviewed within Chapter 19.70 (turf must conform to the project water budget) and through building/grading permits for drainage. California's AB 1572 phases out potable irrigation of nonfunctional turf, but exempts single-family homes.
๐ผ Home BusinessFull home business guide โ
Working from home is common, but running a business from home often requires permits and must comply with zoning restrictions on customer traffic and signage.
Zoning Restrictions
Some RestrictionsPerris allows home occupations as an accessory use in residential zones under Municipal Code 19.02.140 (amended by Ordinance 17-05199 in 2017). The business must be clearly incidental to the home, use no more than one room or 25% of the dwelling, and not change the residential character of the property.
Cottage Food Operations
Some RestrictionsCalifornia's Cottage Food law (HSC 113758 / AB 1616) lets residents make and sell certain low-risk foods from home. Perris allows home catering and food-preparation as a home occupation under Municipal Code 19.02.140, subject to Riverside County Environmental Health registration or permitting as the local enforcement agency.
Signage Rules
Heavy RestrictionsPerris prohibits signage and commercial advertising for home occupations. Municipal Code 19.02.140 bars any sign for a home-based business so the property keeps its residential appearance - a stricter rule than for commercial storefronts governed by the Chapter 19.75 sign regulations.
Home Occupation Permits
Some RestrictionsPerris requires a valid City business license to operate a home occupation but does not require a separate discretionary home occupation permit. The business is approved administratively if it meets the standards of Municipal Code 19.02.140; food and certain regulated uses need additional approvals.
Home Daycare
Few RestrictionsUnder California law (SB 234, HSC 1597.40-1597.46), both small (up to 8) and large (up to 14) family child care homes are a residential use by right. Perris cannot require a conditional use permit to operate one in a residential zone, though a City business license and state licensing still apply.
๐ Swimming Pools & SpasFull swimming pools & spas guide โ
Pool ownership comes with safety fencing requirements, permit obligations, and drainage rules that vary by jurisdiction.
Safety Rules
Heavy RestrictionsPerris pools follow California's Swimming Pool Safety Act and the California Building/Electrical/Plumbing Codes. New and remodeled pools need at least two drowning-prevention features, anti-entrapment suction outlets, and GFCI-protected equipment. Riverside County's uniform barrier letter must be signed by the owner before a permit is issued.
Pool Permits
Some RestrictionsThe City of Perris requires a building permit (issued through its Accela online portal) for any in-ground or permanent swimming pool or spa. Zoning sets the location; the structure must conform to the California Building Code and Health and Safety Code. Plan check follows the Western Riverside County uniform pool standards.
Hot Tub Rules
Some RestrictionsSpas and hot tubs in Perris follow the same accessory-structure setbacks and California safety codes as pools. A self-contained spa or hot tub with a listed ASTM F-1346 safety cover is exempt from the pool-barrier requirements, under the Western Riverside County standards Perris uses.
Fencing Requirements
Heavy RestrictionsPerris defers to California's Swimming Pool Safety Act for pool barriers. New or remodeled pools at single-family homes must have at least two approved drowning-prevention features. Enclosures must be at least 60 inches high with self-closing, self-latching gates, per state law and the Western Riverside County barrier standards.
Above-Ground Pools
Some RestrictionsAbove-ground pools in Perris are treated as accessory structures under Zoning Chapter 19.29 and must meet the same setbacks and the California Swimming Pool Safety Act barrier rules as in-ground pools. Small portable/prefabricated pools under 5,000 gallons may avoid a building permit, but the 60-inch barrier still applies.
๐๏ธ Accessory StructuresFull accessory structures guide โ
Thinking about an ADU, shed, or garage conversion? Local rules on accessory structures have changed rapidly in recent years, especially in California.
ADU Rules
Some RestrictionsThe City of Perris permits accessory dwelling units and junior ADUs ministerially under its own Zoning Code Chapter 19.81, implementing California Government Code Chapter 13 (Gov. Code 66310 et seq.). Detached ADUs may reach 1,200 sq ft, JADUs are capped at 500 sq ft, and ADUs may not be rented for under 31 days.
Garage Conversions
Some RestrictionsPerris allows garages and other existing structures to be converted into ADUs or JADUs under Municipal Code Chapter 19.81. A converted-space ADU has no maximum size limit, and when a garage is converted the lost parking for the primary home does not have to be replaced. Conversions must stay within the existing building envelope.
Shed Rules
Some RestrictionsPerris regulates sheds as accessory buildings under Municipal Code Chapter 19.29. Detached tool/storage sheds up to 120 sq ft and 10 feet tall with no utilities are permit-exempt. Larger accessory buildings cap at 750 sq ft and must sit at least five feet from side and rear lot lines.
Carport Rules
Some RestrictionsPerris regulates carports, canopies, and overhanging structures under Municipal Code Chapter 19.29. Such structures must sit at least five feet from any rear or interior side lot line, stay unenclosed on at least three sides, and may not cover more than 25% of the required rear yard. Alley-access garages and carports must sit 20 feet from the opposite alley line.
Tiny Homes
Some RestrictionsPerris has no separate 'tiny home' ordinance. A tiny house on a permanent foundation is generally permitted as an accessory dwelling unit under Municipal Code Chapter 19.81 (minimum 320 sq ft). A tiny house on wheels is treated as a recreational vehicle and may not be used as a permanent residence on a standard residential lot.
๐ Outdoor CookingFull outdoor cooking guide โ
BBQ & Propane Rules
Some RestrictionsBackyard propane and charcoal barbecues are allowed at single-family homes in Perris. The California Fire Code (adopted in Title 20) restricts open-flame cooking devices on combustible balconies and near combustible construction at apartments and condos, where charcoal and LP-gas grills are limited. Store propane cylinders upright and outdoors.
Smoker Rules
Some RestrictionsBackyard smokers (wood, pellet, charcoal or gas) are allowed at single-family homes in Perris and are treated as outdoor cooking devices under the California Fire Code (adopted in Title 20). The main constraints are the Fire Code's restriction on open-flame and solid-fuel cooking near combustible construction at apartments and condos, plus South Coast AQMD smoke and no-burn rules.
๐ชง Sign RegulationsFull sign regulations guide โ
Political Signs
Some RestrictionsPerris regulates political signs in Municipal Code Section 19.75.110(a). Signs are allowed in any zone with owner consent, posted no earlier than 90 days before an election and removed within 10 days after. A sign may not exceed 32 sq ft per side or 6 feet tall, may not be illuminated, and no lot may carry over 80 sq ft.
Garage Sale Signs
Heavy RestrictionsPerris addresses garage/yard sale signs in Municipal Code Section 5.32.080. No advertising signs are permitted off the sale property or in the public right-of-way. Only one on-site sign up to four square feet is allowed (two signs, one facing each direction, for corner-lot homes). A finance-department permit is required to hold the sale itself.
๐๏ธ Property MaintenanceFull property maintenance guide โ
Property Blight
Some RestrictionsThe City of Perris enforces blight and exterior-maintenance standards under its own Municipal Code, not Riverside County's. The Code Enforcement (Neighborhood Preservation) Division treats accumulated trash and debris, junk, inoperable household items, dead or overgrown front-yard vegetation, and improperly stored trash carts as public nuisances subject to abatement.
Trash Bin Storage
Some RestrictionsPerris Municipal Code Chapter 7.16 governs how residents store and set out trash and recycling carts. Containers may not be stored where they are visible from the street or kept on the public right-of-way, and the City treats improperly stored carts as a code violation enforced by its Code Enforcement Division.
Vacant Lot Maintenance
Some RestrictionsPerris does not publish a standalone vacant-lot ordinance, but undeveloped and vacant parcels fall under the City's general nuisance and weed-and-rubbish abatement code (Title 7, Chapters 7.02 and 7.08). Owners must keep lots free of accumulated rubbish, debris, and overgrown weeds that the City can declare and abate as a public nuisance.
Weeds & Overgrown Grass
Some RestrictionsPerris requires owners and occupants to keep front-yard and street-visible vegetation alive and maintained, and authorizes the City to abate overgrown weeds and rubbish. Letting visible vegetation die, become overgrown, or go missing is a code violation enforced by the City of Perris, not Riverside County.
Garage Sale Rules
Some RestrictionsPerris regulates yard and garage sales under Municipal Code Chapter 5.32. Each address is limited to three yard sales per calendar year, sales may run one to three consecutive days, and a permit is required. Sales are allowed Friday through Sunday, 7 a.m. to 6 p.m., with a permit obtained at City Hall.
๐ก Outdoor LightingFull outdoor lighting guide โ
Dark Sky Rules
Some RestrictionsThe City of Perris has no standalone dark-sky lighting ordinance and has not separately adopted Riverside County's Mount Palomar Ordinance 655. Its main lighting rule is in the parking standards (Municipal Code 19.69.030), requiring full-cut-off fixtures directed away from neighbors, plus a 750 cd/m2 nighttime cap on illuminated signs (Sec. 19.75.160).
Light Trespass
Some RestrictionsPerris does not have a numeric residential light-trespass limit, but Municipal Code Section 19.69.030 requires that any illumination, including security lighting, use full-cut-off fixtures and be directed away from adjoining properties and the public right-of-way. Illuminated signs must use shielded fixtures and stay under 750 cd/m2 at night (Sec. 19.75.160).
๐๏ธ Trash & RecyclingFull trash & recycling guide โ
Pickup Rules & Schedules
Some RestrictionsTrash, recycling, and organics collection in Perris is provided by the City's franchised hauler, CR&R, Inc. Residents receive three automated color-coded carts โ black for trash, gray for recycling, green for organics/green waste โ serviced once a week. Only the hauler's carts are picked up.
Bin Placement Rules
Some RestrictionsPerris Municipal Code Chapter 7.16 sets when and where carts may be placed for collection. Carts may go to the curb or alley no earlier than 12 hours before pickup and must be removed within 24 hours after. Between collections, carts may not be stored where visible from the street or on the public right-of-way.
Bulk Item Disposal
Few RestrictionsThe City's franchised hauler CR&R offers free bulky-item pickup to Perris residents for large items that don't fit in carts, such as furniture and appliances. Residents schedule pickups by appointment with CR&R. The City also runs Citywide Clean-Up events for additional large-item disposal.
Recycling Requirements
Some RestrictionsPerris residents must separate recyclables from trash and place them in the gray CR&R cart, with trash in the black cart and organics in the green cart. Under California's SB 1383 and AB 341/AB 1826, residents and businesses must subscribe to recycling service; the City and CR&R provide the three-cart system to comply.
Mandatory Organics Recycling
Heavy RestrictionsUnder California SB 1383, Perris residents and businesses must separate organic waste โ food scraps, food-soiled paper, and yard/plant debris โ into the green CR&R organics cart. Perris has over 70,000 residents, so it is not rural-exempt. The City administers SB 1383 through Public Works, and CR&R processes organics at its Perris anaerobic digester.
๐ Curfew LawsFull curfew laws guide โ
๐ Building Setbacks & ZoningFull building setbacks & zoning guide โ
Structure Height Limits
Some RestrictionsThe City of Perris caps single-family residential building height at 30 feet (measured to the top of the roof pitch) in its lot-size-based zones such as R-7,200 and R-6,000. Section 19.02.030 allows limited rooftop features (penthouses, mechanical equipment) to exceed the zone limit by less than 10 feet in residential zones โ but not to add floor space.
Setback Rules
Some RestrictionsPerris classifies single-family zones by lot size, each with its own setbacks in Zoning Code Title 19. In typical R-7,200 and R-6,000 zones the minimum front yard is 20 feet (25 feet for a front-entry garage), side yard is 5 feet per story, street side yard is 10โ15 feet, and rear yard is 20 feet. Setbacks vary by zone.
Lot Coverage Limits
Some RestrictionsThe City of Perris limits how much of a residential lot can be covered by buildings, and the cap depends on the number of stories. In R-7,200 and R-6,000 single-family zones, maximum lot coverage is 60 percent for one-story dwellings and 40 percent for two-story dwellings, per Zoning Code Sections 19.24.080 and 19.25.080.
๐ณ Tree ProtectionFull tree protection guide โ
Overall: What to Expect in Perris
Perris has 100 ordinances on file across 18 categories. Of these, 7 are rated permissive, 78 moderate, and 15 strict. This gives you a general sense of how tightly regulated daily life is in Perris compared to other cities.
Rules can change, and enforcement varies. Always verify specific requirements with the city directly before making major decisions like building a fence, listing on Airbnb, or starting a home business.