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Moving to Redlands, 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 Redlands across 18 categories and 100 specific rules we track.

21 Permissive59 Moderate20 Strict

🔊 Noise OrdinancesFull noise ordinances guide →

Noise rules affect everything from weekend parties to lawn care schedules. Quiet hours, construction restrictions, and barking dog limits vary widely between cities.

Leaf Blower Rules

Few Restrictions

Redlands has no leaf-blower-specific ban. A proposed gas-blower ban was discussed by the City Council in March 2024 but was not adopted. Leaf-blower noise is governed by the general Community Noise Control chapter (8.06) and California's statewide CARB ban on the SALE of new gas-powered small off-road engines (effective 2024).

Leaf-blower-specific ban: None adopted in Redlands2024 proposal: Gas-blower ban discussed Mar. 2024, not adopted

Decibel Limits

Some Restrictions

Redlands Municipal Code Section 8.06.070 sets exterior limits by receiving zone and time: 50 dBA night / 60 dBA day for residential, public-space and institutional districts; 60 dBA night / 65 dBA day for commercial; and 75 dBA anytime for industrial. Interior limits (Section 8.06.080) are 45 dBA for residential and institutional, 50 dBA commercial, 60 dBA industrial.

Residential exterior: 50 dBA night / 60 dBA day (Sec. 8.06.070)Commercial exterior: 60 dBA night / 65 dBA day

Quiet Hours

Some Restrictions

The City of Redlands treats 10:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m. as its nighttime quiet period under Municipal Code Chapter 8.06 (Community Noise Control). During those hours exterior noise limits tighten and many activities (radios, loudspeakers, stereos) are prohibited if they create a noise disturbance across a residential or commercial property line.

Nighttime hours: 10:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m.Code chapter: Municipal Code Ch. 8.06 (Community Noise Control)

Construction Hours

Some Restrictions

Redlands Municipal Code Section 8.06.090.F bars construction and demolition that creates a noise disturbance across a residential or commercial property line between 6:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. on weekdays, including Saturdays, and at any time on Sundays or holidays, except for emergency utility/city work. Allowed weekday hours are effectively 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Weekday/Saturday allowed hours: 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.Sundays/holidays: Prohibited (except emergency work)

Barking Dogs

Some Restrictions

Redlands prohibits chronic animal noise two ways: Municipal Code Section 8.06.090.D bars keeping any animal or bird that frequently or for long duration barks, howls, meows or squawks so as to create a noise disturbance across a property line, and Section 6.24.120 (Noisy Animals; Prohibited) is enforced through a written warning and a 10-day abatement period before prosecution.

Noise-chapter section: 8.06.090.D (Animals and Birds)Animal-code section: 6.24.120 (Noisy Animals; Prohibited)

Amplified Music & Events

Some Restrictions

Redlands Municipal Code Section 8.06.090.A prohibits radios, TVs, phonographs, drums and instruments, and Section 8.06.090.B prohibits loudspeakers and stereo systems, from creating a noise disturbance across a residential or commercial property line between 10:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. At any hour, amplified sound must also stay within the exterior dBA limits of Section 8.06.070.

Radio/instrument section: 8.06.090.ALoudspeaker/stereo section: 8.06.090.B

Vehicle Noise

Some Restrictions

For vehicles on public roads, noise is controlled by the California Vehicle Code, not a Redlands ordinance: Sections 27150-27151 require an adequate muffler and bar amplified/modified exhaust (a 95 dBA SAE standard applies to vehicles under 6,000 lbs). On private property, vehicle and machinery noise falls under Redlands Municipal Code Section 8.06.090.C and the general limits of Chapter 8.06.

On-road exhaust/muffler authority: CA Vehicle Code 27150 / 27151Vehicle noise standard (<6,000 lbs): 95 dBA, SAE-tested (VC 27151)

Outdoor Music

Some Restrictions

Outdoor music in Redlands is limited by the zone-based exterior dBA standards in Section 8.06.070 and is prohibited from disturbing neighbors between 10:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. under Sections 8.06.090.A/B. In City parks, loudspeakers and amplified sound for music or speeches require a reservation or permit from the director under Section 12.44.090.

Governing chapter: Ch. 8.06 (Community Noise Control)Residential daytime limit: 60 dBA (Sec. 8.06.070)

Industrial Noise

Some Restrictions

Redlands Municipal Code Section 8.06.070 caps exterior noise at industrially zoned receiving property at 75 dBA at any time; where industrial noise reaches a residential property, the lower residential limits (50 dBA night / 60 dBA day) apply. Stationary machinery must be muffled (8.06.090.C) and vibration is regulated under Section 8.06.090.G.

Industrial exterior limit: 75 dBA anytime (Sec. 8.06.070)At residential receiving property: 60 dBA day / 50 dBA night

Aircraft Noise

Few Restrictions

Redlands' Community Noise Control chapter (8.06) does not regulate aircraft noise. In-flight aircraft noise is controlled by the FAA under federal preemption; Redlands Municipal Airport defers all flight-noise complaints to the FAA. Airport land-use compatibility is addressed through the City General Plan and California state airport-noise standards, not a City noise ordinance.

City aircraft-noise ordinance: None (not in Ch. 8.06)In-flight noise authority: FAA (federal preemption)

🏠 Short-Term RentalsFull short-term rentals guide →

If you plan to rent out your home on Airbnb or VRBO - even occasionally - you need to know the local STR rules before listing.

Taxes & Fees

Some Restrictions

Redlands levies a 10% Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT) under Municipal Code Chapter 3.24 on lodging rented to 'transients' (guests staying under 30 days). The City's TOT rate has been 10% since December 5, 1998 and generated about $2.31 million in fiscal year 2022-23. Hosts must collect this tax from guests and remit it to the City's Revenue Division.

Transient Occupancy Tax rate: 10% (Municipal Code Ch. 3.24)Rate effective since: December 5, 1998

Primary-Residence-Only Rule

Few Restrictions

Redlands has no primary-residence or owner-occupancy requirement for short-term rentals, because it has no STR ordinance. The only owner-occupancy rule tied to rentals is for SB 9 lot splits, where the owner must live in a unit for at least three years - and on those lots rentals under 30 days are banned outright (Section 18.156.1330).

Primary-residence requirement (general STR): None (no City STR ordinance)Owner-occupancy (general STR): Not required by the City

Occupancy Limits

Few Restrictions

Redlands has no short-term-rental-specific occupancy cap (for example, a per-bedroom guest limit) because the City has no STR ordinance. Occupancy is governed by generally applicable standards - the California Building/Residential Code and the City's housing/zoning rules - rather than an STR formula. Claims of a Redlands per-bedroom STR limit are not supported by the Municipal Code.

STR-specific occupancy cap: None (no City STR ordinance)Per-bedroom guest limit: Not in the Redlands Municipal Code

Registration Rules

Few Restrictions

Redlands has no short-term-rental registration program. There is no City STR registry, certificate, or annual STR renewal in the Municipal Code. Hosts who collect Transient Occupancy Tax must register with the City's Revenue Division for TOT, and rental properties may fall under the City's general Rental Property Inspection registration - but neither is an STR-specific license.

STR-specific registry: None in the City of RedlandsTOT registration: Required for transient lodging (Ch. 3.24)

Insurance Requirements

Few Restrictions

Redlands does not require short-term-rental hosts to carry liability insurance, because the City has no STR ordinance imposing such a condition. Cities with STR permit programs often mandate $500,000-$1,000,000 in liability coverage; Redlands has none. Hosts should still carry adequate coverage and check platform-provided protection and their homeowner's policy.

City STR insurance requirement: None (no STR ordinance)Mandated coverage amount: Not set by the City

Permit Requirements

Few Restrictions

The City of Redlands has no dedicated short-term-rental (STR) permitting ordinance. There is no STR-specific use permit, license type, or vacation-rental chapter in the Municipal Code, and STRs are not listed among the City's planning permit types. The one explicit STR rule is a ban on rentals under 30 days on lots created under California's SB 9 lot-split law.

Dedicated STR ordinance: None adopted by the City of RedlandsSTR use permit: Not listed among City planning permits

Parking Rules

Few Restrictions

Redlands has no short-term-rental-specific parking requirement, because there is no STR ordinance. Parking is governed by the City's general off-street parking standards in the zoning code (Chapter 18.164) and by on-street parking rules in Title 10. SB 9 two-unit projects must provide one off-street space per new unit (with transit exceptions) under Section 18.156.1330.

STR-specific parking rule: None (no City STR ordinance)Residential off-street parking: Zoning code Ch. 18.164

Night Caps

Few Restrictions

Redlands sets no annual night cap on short-term rentals (such as a 90- or 120-day limit), because the City has no STR ordinance. The only night-related rule is on SB 9 lots, where the Code bars any rental shorter than 30 days outright - a minimum-stay prohibition, not an annual cap - under Municipal Code Section 18.156.1330.

Annual night cap: None (no City STR ordinance)90/120-day limit: Not adopted in Redlands

Noise Rules

Some Restrictions

There is no STR-specific noise rule in Redlands, but STRs are fully subject to the City's Community Noise Control chapter (Municipal Code Chapter 8.06). It sets 10:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m. quiet hours, residential exterior limits of 50 dBA night / 60 dBA day (Section 8.06.070), and bars loudspeakers, stereos and instruments that disturb neighbors at night.

STR-specific noise rule: None (general code applies)Quiet hours: 10:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m. (Ch. 8.06)

Host Presence Rule

Few Restrictions

Redlands imposes no host-presence or local-contact requirement on short-term rentals, because it has no STR ordinance. There is no rule that the host live on-site, designate a 24-hour responsible person, or respond within a set time - conditions common in cities with STR programs. General nuisance and noise enforcement applies regardless of host location.

Host on-site requirement: None (no City STR ordinance)24-hour local contact required: No

🔥 Fire RegulationsFull fire regulations guide →

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 Restrictions

All fireworks are illegal in the City of Redlands, including so-called 'safe and sane' fireworks. The City Fire Code prohibits possession, sale, use, and discharge citywide. Violations carry fines up to $1,000, plus property-owner and guardian liability for the cost of the public-safety response.

Consumer fireworks: Banned citywide (incl. 'safe and sane')City Code: RMC Title 15, Ch. 15.20 (Fire Code)

Fire Pit Rules

Some Restrictions

Redlands has no separate fire-pit ordinance; backyard fire pits are governed by the 2022 California Fire Code, which the City adopted in Chapter 15.20. Recreational fires must stay at least 25 feet from structures, and manufactured portable outdoor fireplaces must stay at least 15 feet away.

Local fire-pit ordinance: None; 2022 CA Fire Code appliesAdopted by: RMC 15.20.010

Smoke Detectors

Some Restrictions

Smoke and carbon monoxide alarm requirements in Redlands come from California state law (Health & Safety Code 13113.7 and 17926) and the California Building and Fire Codes the City adopted, not a separate City ordinance. Working alarms are required in every dwelling intended for human occupancy.

Local smoke-alarm ordinance: None; state law + adopted codes applySmoke alarms required by: CA Health & Safety Code 13113.7

Outdoor Burning

Heavy Restrictions

Open residential burning is effectively prohibited in Redlands. South Coast AQMD Rule 444 bans residential open burning throughout the San Bernardino Valley, and AQMD Rule 445 prohibits wood and solid-fuel burning on declared winter No-Burn days. The Redlands Fire Department enforces the adopted California Fire Code.

Residential open burning: Prohibited (SCAQMD Rule 444, SB Valley)Air district: South Coast AQMD

Propane Storage

Some Restrictions

Propane (LPG) storage in Redlands is governed by the 2022 California Fire Code, which the City adopted in City Code Chapter 15.20 and enforces through the Redlands Fire Department. Small barbecue-size cylinders are allowed for household use; larger tanks and aggregate quantities trigger Fire Code permits and clearance requirements.

Governing code: 2022 CA Fire Code Ch. 61 (LPG)Adopted by: RMC 15.20.010

Brush Clearance

Heavy Restrictions

Redlands City Code Chapter 8.40 (Abatement of Weeds and Rubbish) declares dry weeds and brush that create a fire hazard a public nuisance. The Redlands Fire Department's Community Risk Reduction division inspects high-fire-hazard areas twice a year; non-compliant properties are abated by the City at the owner's expense.

City ordinance: RMC Ch. 8.40 (Abatement of Weeds & Rubbish)Inspections: Twice per year in high-hazard areas

Wildfire Zones

Heavy Restrictions

Yes -- Redlands contains Fire Hazard Severity Zones. CAL FIRE's 2025 maps keep the southern/eastern foothills (San Timoteo Canyon, Live Oak Canyon, and the Crafton Hills area) in the 'Very High' zone, with new Moderate/High areas in North Redlands. The City Council adopted the updated map via Ordinance No. 2986.

Has FHSZ?: Yes - confirmed by CAL FIRE OSFMVery High zones: San Timoteo Cyn, Live Oak Cyn, Crafton Hills

Backyard Fires

Some Restrictions

Backyard recreational fires in Redlands are governed by the adopted 2022 California Fire Code (RMC 15.20), not a separate City rule. Recreational fires must be at least 25 feet from structures and attended; open burning of trash or debris is prohibited, and wood fires are banned on AQMD No-Burn days.

Governing rule: 2022 CA Fire Code via RMC 15.20.010Recreational fire size: Max 3 ft wide, 2 ft high (CFC 307)

🚗 Parking RulesFull parking rules guide →

Parking rules catch more new residents off guard than almost any other ordinance. RV storage, overnight parking bans, and driveway regulations vary significantly.

RV & Boat Parking

Heavy Restrictions

Redlands restricts where recreational vehicles, boats, trailers and campers may be parked. Detached campers, trailers, boats and watercraft must be parked in an approved space or screened from the street, not in the driveway or front yard, unless the resident obtains a minor exception permit. A legally parked motor home owned by the resident is exempt.

City code section: RMC 18.164.130 (zoning)Driveway/front-yard storage: Prohibited without minor exception permit

Street Parking Limits

Some Restrictions

Vehicles parked on a Redlands street must be licensed and operable and cannot remain in one location for more than 72 consecutive hours. After 72 hours the police place a warning sticker citing Redlands Traffic Ordinance 10.40.110; if not moved, a street-storage citation is issued and the vehicle may be towed under California Vehicle Code 22651(k).

City code section: RMC 10.40.110Maximum in one spot: 72 consecutive hours

Driveway Rules

Some Restrictions

Redlands requires vehicles on residential property to be parked entirely on a permanent paved surface such as asphalt or concrete, not on a front lawn or unpaved dirt. Vehicles also may not block or partially block a sidewalk or driveway, and front-yard storage of trailers, campers and boats is prohibited without a permit.

Surface required: Permanent paved (asphalt/concrete)Front-lawn parking: Prohibited entirely

Overnight Parking

Some Restrictions

Redlands does not impose a blanket citywide overnight street-parking ban; vehicles are governed instead by the 72-hour storage limit (RMC 10.40.110). However, it is unlawful to live or sleep in a recreational vehicle parked on any public property or street, and downtown timed-parking limits apply during daytime hours only.

Citywide overnight ban: None (72-hour rule applies)RV habitation on street: Prohibited

Oversized Vehicle Parking

Heavy Restrictions

Redlands restricts large vehicles through two main rules: heavy commercial vehicles and trailers rated 10,000 pounds GVWR or more are banned from residential streets (RMC 10.40.150), and detached trailers, campers, boats and similar oversized equipment must be screened from the street rather than stored in driveways or front yards (RMC 18.164.130).

Weight ban (residential): 10,000 lbs GVWR or moreCode sections: RMC 10.40.150 and 18.164.130

Commercial Vehicle Restrictions

Heavy Restrictions

Redlands prohibits parking commercial vehicles, truck tractors, semitrailers or trailers rated 10,000 pounds gross vehicle weight or more on any street, alley or parkway in a residential district. In non-residential districts the same heavy vehicles may not park more than two hours, and any left over 24 hours may be towed under California Vehicle Code 22651(n).

City code section: RMC 10.40.150Weight threshold: 10,000 lbs GVWR or more

Abandoned Vehicles

Heavy Restrictions

Redlands treats abandoned, wrecked, dismantled or inoperative vehicles on public or private property as a public nuisance subject to abatement under RMC Chapter 8.56. Before removing a low-value abandoned vehicle, the city must attach a notice at least 72 hours in advance. Once a vehicle is abated, the owner cannot reclaim it.

City code chapter: RMC Chapter 8.56Pre-removal notice: At least 72 hours

Loading Zones

Some Restrictions

Redlands designates commercial loading zones with yellow curb paint stenciled 'LOADING ONLY' and passenger loading zones with white curb paint stenciled 'Passenger Loading Only.' It is unlawful to stop, stand or park in a loading zone for any purpose other than loading or unloading passengers or material, for only the time permitted.

City code section: RMC 10.40.220 (Chapter 10.40)Commercial loading curb: Yellow, stenciled 'LOADING ONLY'

EV Charging

Few Restrictions

Redlands adopted Chapter 15.58 of its municipal code (Ordinance 2869, 2018) to create an expedited, streamlined, nondiscretionary permitting process for electric vehicle charging stations. The chapter governs how charging stations are permitted and installed citywide, allows electronic submittal, and limits review to health-and-safety requirements.

City code chapter: RMC Chapter 15.58Adopting ordinance: Ordinance 2869 (2018)

Curb Color Rules

Some Restrictions

In Redlands, curb colors signal parking rules consistent with California convention and the city's traffic code: yellow curbs stenciled 'LOADING ONLY' mark commercial loading zones, and white curbs stenciled 'Passenger Loading Only' mark passenger loading zones. Red curbs mean no stopping, standing or parking. Only the city may place official curb markings.

Red curb: No stopping/standing/parkingYellow curb: Commercial loading only

🧱 Fence RegulationsFull fence regulations guide →

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.

Retaining Walls

Some Restrictions

In Redlands, retaining walls over 3 feet high (measured from top of footing) require a city building permit; walls under 3 feet are exempt unless they support a surcharge or impound hazardous liquids. Exceptions to garden/retaining-wall heights under zoning standards are granted through the Minor Exception Permit committee.

Permit Threshold: Over 3 ft (top of footing)Always Needs Permit: Wall supporting a surcharge

Height Limits

Some Restrictions

In the City of Redlands, Municipal Code Chapter 18.168 limits fences and walls to 6 feet along side and rear property lines. In a required front yard, only open fences up to 4 feet are permitted, and no fence or wall over 3 feet may stand in a required front yard area.

Side & Rear Limit: 6 feet (RMC 18.168.020)Front Yard Open Fence: Up to 4 feet

Material Restrictions

Some Restrictions

Redlands does not broadly ban common fence materials, but RMC 18.168 sets material-specific rules: required buffer walls between commercial/industrial and residential uses must be solid masonry, and a front-yard 'open fence' must be wire mesh or similar admitting at least 90% light. Properties in historic districts face design review of materials.

Front-Yard Open Fence: Wire mesh / 90%+ light (RMC 18.168.020)Required Buffer Wall: Must be solid masonry (18.168.030)

Permit Requirements

Some Restrictions

Redlands requires a building permit for taller and structural fences/walls and a Minor Exception Permit for fences exceeding zoning height limits. Wood, chain-link, vinyl, or metal fences not over 6 feet are generally exempt from a building permit; masonry walls over 3 feet and most retaining walls over 3 feet require one.

Building Permit Exempt: Wood/chain-link/vinyl/metal fences ≤ 6 ftMasonry Wall Permit: Required over 3 ft (building permit)

Fence Requirements

Heavy Restrictions

RMC 18.168.030 requires a 6-foot solid masonry wall along property/zone boundaries separating industrial or commercial uses from abutting residential districts. Where that boundary is a side lot line, the wall drops to 3 feet within the required front yard; where it fronts a street, it is set back 10 feet with landscaping. Pools require code-compliant safety barriers.

Required Buffer Wall: 6 ft solid masonry (RMC 18.168.030)Side-Line Reduction: 3 ft within required front yard

Neighbor Fence Rules

Some Restrictions

Redlands has no separate boundary-fence cost statute; shared fences fall under California Civil Code 841, which presumes adjoining owners share equally in construction and maintenance and requires 30 days' written notice. The city's role is procedural: a fence crossing a property line needs signatures from affected neighbors on a Minor Exception application.

Cost Sharing: Civil Code 841 (equal-share presumption)Notice Requirement: 30 days' prior written notice

Approved Materials

Some Restrictions

Common materials — wood, chain-link, vinyl, metal, masonry — are all usable in Redlands within the height/permit rules of RMC 18.168. Required buffer walls must be solid masonry, and front-yard 'open fences' must be see-through wire mesh. In Victorian/Craftsman historic districts, fence design and materials are subject to a Certificate of Appropriateness.

Allowed Materials: Wood, chain-link, vinyl, metal, masonryFront-Yard Material: Open / see-through (90%+ light)

🐔 Animal OrdinancesFull animal ordinances guide →

Pet owners and aspiring chicken keepers should check local animal ordinances before signing a lease or closing on a home.

Cat Rules

Few Restrictions

Redlands does not require cat licenses and its dog leash law does not apply to cats. Households may keep up to three adult cats under Municipal Code 18.40.040(G). The City's own shelter handles cats, and statewide rabies and cruelty laws still apply.

Cat license: Not required by the CityCat leash law: None (leash law is dog-specific, Ch. 6.04)

Chickens & Livestock

Some Restrictions

In early 2026 Redlands adopted Ordinance No. 2999 allowing backyard hens (and rabbits) in most single-family residential zones, scaled by lot size, with roosters prohibited for noise. Other livestock and fowl require a permit from Animal Control under Municipal Code 6.24.010.

Hen ordinance: Ord. No. 2999 / Res. 8747 (introduced Feb 5, 2026)Hens by lot size: 0 under 4,000 sq ft; 3 at 4,000-7,200; up to 9 larger

Exotic Pets

Heavy Restrictions

Redlands does not allow wild, undomesticated animals as backyard pets. Keeping nondomestic animals requires an Animal Control permit under Municipal Code 6.24.010, and the rural-animal zone (Ch. 18.29) expressly bars lions, tigers, bears, wolves, and cougars. California's restricted-species law (14 CCR 671) separately bans most exotics.

Nondomestic permit: Required (Municipal Code 6.24.010)Zone ban: No lion/tiger/bear/wolf/cougar in R-R-A (Ch. 18.29)

Dog Leash Laws

Some Restrictions

Redlands prohibits dogs from running at large, loose, or unrestrained on any public street, sidewalk, or place under Municipal Code 6.04.170. The City runs its own Animal Services/Shelter on N. Kansas Street and licenses all dogs four months and older.

Leash/at-large rule: Municipal Code 6.04.170 (no running at large)License required: Dogs 4 months+ (MC 6.04.020)

Beekeeping

Some Restrictions

Keeping bees in Redlands requires a permit. Municipal Code 6.20.020 makes it unlawful to keep or control any stands of bees within the city without first obtaining a permit, subject to conditions imposed by Animal Control. Beekeepers must also register apiaries with the county under California law.

City permit: Required (Municipal Code 6.20.020)Issuing authority: Redlands Animal Control (conditions imposed)

Wildlife Feeding

Some Restrictions

Redlands does not publish a standalone ordinance banning the feeding of wildlife. Feeding that attracts coyotes, rodents, or other animals can be addressed as a nuisance under the City's animal and nuisance rules, and noisy or nuisance animals are prohibited under Municipal Code 6.24.120. California also prohibits feeding big game wildlife.

Dedicated city feeding ban: None identified; handled as a nuisanceNuisance animals: Noisy/nuisance animals prohibited (MC 6.24.120)

Breed Restrictions

Some Restrictions

Redlands does not ban any specific breed. Its dangerous- and vicious-dog rules in Municipal Code Chapter 6.05 (Ordinance No. 2988, 2025) are breed-neutral and based on a dog's behavior, imposing confinement, leash-and-muzzle, insurance, and signage requirements on dogs declared dangerous.

Breed-specific ban: None - approach is breed-neutralGoverning chapter: Municipal Code Ch. 6.05 (Ord. 2988, Dec 2025)

Livestock

Some Restrictions

Horses and other livestock are tied to Redlands' rural and agricultural zones. In the R-R-A Rural Residential Animals District (Ch. 18.29) no more than three horses may be kept per lot, each requiring at least one acre, and animals must sit well back from neighboring homes and water wells. Other livestock needs a permit under 6.24.010.

Horse limit: Max 3 horses per lot (R-R-A, Ch. 18.29)Acreage per horse: At least 1 acre each

Pet Limits

Some Restrictions

Redlands limits households to not more than three adult dogs and three adult cats, plus their litters up to ten weeks of age, under Municipal Code 18.40.040(G). Dogs four months and older must also be licensed by the City under 6.04.020.

Dog limit: 3 adult dogs (MC 18.40.040(G))Cat limit: 3 adult cats (MC 18.40.040(G))

Animal Hoarding

Heavy Restrictions

Redlands enforces humane care through its pet-limit rules and Animal Services, while serious neglect and hoarding are prosecuted under California Penal Code 597 and 597.1. The City's three-dog/three-cat cap (18.40.040(G)) helps prevent overcrowding, and Animal Control may seize neglected or hoarded animals.

City overcrowding limit: 3 adult dogs + 3 adult cats (MC 18.40.040(G))Cruelty/hoarding law: Cal. Penal Code 597

🌿 Landscaping RulesFull landscaping rules guide →

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 Restrictions

Redlands has no published fixed lawn-grass height number in its city code. Instead, overgrown vegetation is regulated through Municipal Code Chapter 8.40 (Abatement of Weeds and Rubbish), which treats fire-prone and nuisance vegetation as a condition the city can order abated rather than enforcing a turf-height limit.

City height limit: No fixed lawn-grass height number published in city codeGoverning rule: Municipal Code Chapter 8.40, Abatement of Weeds and Rubbish

Native Plants

Few Restrictions

Redlands encourages native and drought-tolerant landscaping and offers conversion rebates. There is no requirement to plant natives, but front yards must be at least 80% plant material (no more than 20% hardscape) under the city's landscaping code, and natives count toward that requirement.

Native mandate: None - natives encouraged, not requiredFront-yard rule: At least 80% plant material, max 20% hardscape (Sec. 18.168.120)

Tree Trimming

Heavy Restrictions

Redlands treats street trees as city assets. Trimming any tree in a city easement or public place requires a Public Tree Encroachment Permit, and the work must meet International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) standards per Municipal Code Chapter 12.52. The city waives permit fees when residents hire certified contractors.

Permit needed: Public Tree Encroachment Permit for any tree in a city easement/public placeGoverning chapter: Municipal Code Ch. 12.52 (Trees and Tree Protection)

Tree Removal & Heritage Trees

Heavy Restrictions

Removing any tree in a Redlands city easement or public place requires a Public Tree Encroachment Permit under Municipal Code Chapter 12.52. Heritage trees, landmark trees, and historic species groves (such as the Cajon Street palms) receive special protection, and significant or historic removals can require an independent arborist review.

Permit needed: Public Tree Encroachment Permit to remove any tree in a city easement/public placeProtected categories: Heritage Trees, Landmark Trees, and historic species groves (e.g., Cajon St palms)

Artificial Turf

Few Restrictions

Artificial (synthetic) turf is allowed in Redlands and counts as plant material toward the city's front-yard landscaping requirement. Under the city's code, at least 80% of the visible front yard must be plant material - which can include synthetic turf - with no more than 20% hardscape.

Allowed: Yes - artificial/synthetic turf is permittedCounts as: Plant material toward the 80% front-yard requirement (Sec. 18.168.120)

Weed Ordinances

Heavy Restrictions

Redlands regulates weeds, dry brush, and rubbish under Municipal Code Chapter 8.40 (Abatement of Weeds and Rubbish). Fire (Community Risk Reduction) inspects high fire hazard areas twice a year; if a property fails, the owner is noticed and, if non-compliant, the city clears the hazard and bills the cost back to the property.

Governing chapter: Municipal Code Ch. 8.40, Abatement of Weeds and RubbishInspections: Twice a year in high fire hazard areas (Community Risk Reduction)

Water Restrictions

Heavy Restrictions

Redlands runs its own water utility (Municipal Utilities & Engineering) and enforces permanent outdoor watering rules under Municipal Code Chapter 13.06 (Water Conservation Plan). Even addresses water Mon/Thu/Sat, odd addresses Tue/Fri/Sun, never on Wednesdays, and never between noon and 8 p.m.

Water provider: City of Redlands (its own Municipal Utilities & Engineering utility)Even addresses: Water Monday, Thursday, Saturday only

Rainwater Harvesting

Few Restrictions

Redlands has no city ordinance restricting residential rainwater harvesting; the city actively encourages capturing stormwater. Its drought-tolerant landscaping guidance promotes rain gardens that capture runoff from rooftops, gutters, and streets and let it infiltrate within 24 to 48 hours. California's Rainwater Capture Act broadly permits residential capture statewide.

City restriction: None - city encourages rainwater capture and rain gardensRain garden infiltration: Captures rooftop/gutter/street runoff, infiltrates in 24-48 hours

Composting

Some Restrictions

Redlands requires residents to recycle organic and food waste under California's SB 1383. Food scraps and yard/green waste go in the city's green curbside bin, not the regular trash. Backyard composting is still encouraged, and the city has provided free kitchen compost pails.

Requirement: Mandatory organics recycling under California SB 1383Where it goes: Food scraps + green waste in the green curbside bin, not regular trash

💼 Home BusinessFull home business guide →

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.

Signage Rules

Heavy Restrictions

Redlands prohibits advertising signs for home occupations. A home-based business may not display any on-premises sign or use local advertising that calls attention to the home being used for business, with the sole exception of a telephone-number listing.

On-site business signs: Prohibited for home occupationsLocal advertising media: Not allowed if it identifies the home as a business

Zoning Restrictions

Some Restrictions

Home occupations are allowed in Redlands residential zones as a secondary use, subject to Chapter 18.160 of the Redlands Municipal Code. The business must be clearly incidental to the dwelling, use no more than 10% of the home or one room, and not change the residential character of the property.

Where allowed: Residential zones (e.g., R-1) as a home occupationGoverning chapter: RMC Chapter 18.160 (home occupations)

Home Occupation Permits

Some Restrictions

Anyone working from home or using a home as a place of business in Redlands must obtain a Home Occupation Permit under Chapter 18.160 of the Municipal Code, applied for together with a business license. The permit imposes conditions on floor area, employees, customers, deliveries, and signage.

Permit name: Home Occupation Permit (HOP)Governing chapter: RMC Chapter 18.160

Cottage Food Operations

Some Restrictions

Redlands cannot prohibit a state cottage food operation in a home under California law. A cottage food business needs a City Home Occupation Permit and planning approval, plus a Class A registration or Class B permit from San Bernardino County Environmental Health, which is the food-safety enforcement agency.

City may prohibit?: No - barred by CA HSC 113758 / AB-1616City requirement: Business license + Home Occupation Permit (RMC 18.160)

Home Daycare

Few Restrictions

State-licensed family child care homes are a residential use by right in Redlands. Under California SB 234, the City cannot require a land-use permit or business license for small or large family daycare homes; the state Department of Social Services handles licensing.

Land-use status: Residential use by right (SB 234)City permit/business license: Prohibited for small/large family daycare homes

🏊 Swimming Pools & SpasFull swimming pools & spas guide →

Pool ownership comes with safety fencing requirements, permit obligations, and drainage rules that vary by jurisdiction.

Pool Permits

Some Restrictions

The City of Redlands requires a building permit from its Building & Safety Division to construct a new swimming pool or spa or to remodel an existing one. Issuing a pool permit also triggers California's Swimming Pool Safety Act drowning-prevention requirements before final approval.

Permit required: Yes - building permit for new pool/spa or remodelIssuing office: Building & Safety Division, 35 Cajon St, Suite 15A

Fencing Requirements

Heavy Restrictions

Redlands enforces the California Swimming Pool Safety Act for residential pool barriers. The City's official handout requires a non-climbable enclosure at least 5 feet (60 inches) tall measured opposite the pool, with a maximum 2-inch gap below and tightly spaced verticals so children cannot climb or squeeze through.

Minimum barrier height: 5 feet (60 inches), measured opposite the poolMax gap below barrier: 2 inches above grade

Safety Rules

Heavy Restrictions

When a Redlands pool/spa permit is issued, the pool must have a code-compliant barrier plus at least one of seven state drowning-prevention features. Gates must swing away from the pool and be self-closing and self-latching, with latch release at least 54 inches above the floor, and house doors need exit alarms or self-latching hardware.

Drowning-prevention features: Barrier + at least 1 of 7 state-listed featuresGate operation: Swing away from pool, self-closing & self-latching

Above-Ground Pools

Some Restrictions

Redlands does not publish a separate above-ground pool ordinance. Above-ground pools deep enough to hold water that can drown are treated as swimming pools: they require a building permit and the same California Swimming Pool Safety Act barrier and drowning-prevention features as in-ground pools.

Separate ordinance: No - treated as a swimming pool under state lawPermit: Required if it meets the state swimming pool definition

Hot Tub Rules

Some Restrictions

Redlands regulates spas and hot tubs as part of its pool/spa permitting. Spas need a building permit, and a permitted spa at a single-family home must meet the same California Swimming Pool Safety Act barrier and drowning-prevention requirements as a pool unless it qualifies for the state's approved safety-cover option.

Permit: Required - spa is a permitted structureBarrier or cover: Compliant barrier OR an approved safety cover (HSC 115921(d))

🏗️ Accessory StructuresFull accessory structures guide →

Thinking about an ADU, shed, or garage conversion? Local rules on accessory structures have changed rapidly in recent years, especially in California.

Garage Conversions

Some Restrictions

Redlands allows an existing garage (attached or detached) to be converted into an ADU under California state law, which the City applies directly. Converting a garage to living space requires a building permit, and historic-district conversions are subject to design-compatibility review.

Garage-to-ADU: Allowed under state law applied by the CityParking replacement: Not required when a garage is converted to an ADU (state law)

ADU Rules

Few Restrictions

Redlands processes ADUs and junior ADUs under current California state law (Gov. Code 66310-66342), not its outdated Municipal Code 'second unit' sections. Detached ADUs are capped at 1,200 sq ft, JADUs at 500 sq ft, with 4-foot side/rear setbacks. ADUs in historic districts get design review.

Governing law: CA Gov. Code 66310-66342 (state ADU law applied directly)Detached ADU max size: 1,200 sq ft interior living space

Shed Rules

Some Restrictions

Under Redlands Municipal Code 18.21.140, accessory buildings such as storage sheds must sit at least 5 feet from side and rear property lines (10 feet if over 10 feet tall), and cannot exceed 15 feet in height. Sheds must be at least 10 feet from the main house.

Code section: RMC 18.21.140 (Accessory Buildings)Side/rear setback (under 10 ft tall): 5 feet

Carport Rules

Some Restrictions

Carports are treated as accessory buildings in Redlands' residential zones and follow the same standards as garages and sheds under Title 18: at least 5 feet from side/rear property lines (10 feet if over 10 feet tall) and a 15-foot height cap under RMC 18.21.140.

Classification: Accessory building (garages/carports) in residential zonesCode section: RMC 18.21.140

Tiny Homes

Some Restrictions

Redlands has no separate 'tiny home' ordinance. A permanent tiny house on a foundation is regulated as a dwelling or ADU under California state ADU law; a tiny house on wheels is treated as an RV/trailer and cannot be used as a permanent residence outside a licensed park.

Dedicated tiny-home ordinance: None in RedlandsTiny home on foundation: Permitted as a dwelling/ADU under state ADU law

🍖 Outdoor CookingFull outdoor cooking guide →

🪧 Sign RegulationsFull sign regulations guide →

🏚️ Property MaintenanceFull property maintenance guide →

Garage Sale Rules

Some Restrictions

Redlands Municipal Code Chapter 5.68 requires a city permit before holding any yard, garage, patio, or rummage sale. Permits are issued by the finance director, the fee is set by city council resolution, and the city advertises a $10 yard sale permit applied for through the Revenue Division.

Code: RMC Chapter 5.68 (Yard Sales)Permit required: Yes - before the sale (Sec. 5.68.020)

Trash Bin Storage

Some Restrictions

Redlands provides black (trash), blue (recycling), and green (organics/yard) carts through its municipal Solid Waste Division. Carts must be set out by 6:00 a.m. on collection day and removed from the street no later than 10:00 p.m. the same day. Storing carts as blight can trigger code enforcement.

Hauler: City of Redlands Solid Waste Division (municipal)Carts: Black (trash), blue (recycling), green (organics/yard)

Vacant Lot Maintenance

Some Restrictions

Redlands requires vacant lots to be kept clear of weeds, rubbish, and fire-hazard vegetation. The city's Code Enforcement Division runs an Abandoned Property Registration program for vacant and foreclosed properties to prevent blight and dangerous-building conditions.

Enforced by: Code Enforcement Division; Fire Chief for weeds/rubbishVacant/abandoned: Abandoned Property Registration program

Property Blight

Some Restrictions

Redlands declares blighted property a public nuisance. Premises kept so out of harmony with the maintenance standards of adjacent properties as to cause substantial diminution in neighbors' enjoyment, use, or property values can be abated by the city's Code Enforcement Division.

Operated by: City of Redlands Code Enforcement DivisionBlight standard: Out of harmony with adjacent maintenance standards

Weeds & Overgrown Grass

Some Restrictions

Redlands Municipal Code Chapter 8.40 declares weeds, dry grasses, and combustible rubbish that constitute a fire hazard a public nuisance. The Fire Chief issues a Notice to Clean Premises giving owners 14 days to abate, with appeal to the city council and city abatement plus a lien if ignored.

Code: RMC Chapter 8.40 (Sec. 8.40.050)Standard: Weeds/dry grass/rubbish constituting a fire hazard

💡 Outdoor LightingFull outdoor lighting guide →

🗑️ Trash & RecyclingFull trash & recycling guide →

Pickup Rules & Schedules

Some Restrictions

The City of Redlands collects trash, recycling, and organics weekly through its own municipal Solid Waste Division. Carts must be at the curb before 6:00 a.m. on the collection day, with pickup between 6:00 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. Missed collections must be reported within 24 hours.

Provider: City of Redlands Solid Waste Division (municipal)Frequency: Weekly, assigned service day

Recycling Requirements

Some Restrictions

Redlands requires source separation of recyclables into the blue cart, collected by the city's municipal Solid Waste Division. Under SB 1383 and RMC Chapters 13.64/13.67, residents, multi-family tenants, and businesses must keep recyclables out of the trash. Contamination is prohibited.

Cart: Blue cart for recyclables (city-issued)Accepted: Bottles, cans, paper, cardboard, glass jars/bottles

Mandatory Organics Recycling

Heavy Restrictions

Beginning April 1, 2024, all food waste in Redlands must go in the green (organics) cart. Under SB 1383 and RMC Chapters 13.64/13.67 (Ordinance No. 2987), organics collection is mandatory for all residents, multi-family tenants, and businesses. With over 70,000 residents, Redlands is not rural-exempt.

Food-waste mandate: Begins April 1, 2024 (green cart)Law: SB 1383; RMC Ch. 13.64/13.67 (Ord. No. 2987)

Bin Placement Rules

Some Restrictions

Redlands requires all carts curbside before 6:00 a.m. on collection day, placed at least 3 feet from any obstacle such as a parked car or fence and at least 1 foot from other containers. Carts must be removed from the street no later than 10:00 p.m. on the day of service.

Set-out: Curbside before 6:00 a.m. on collection dayClearance from obstacles: At least 3 feet (car, fence, etc.)

Bulk Item Disposal

Few Restrictions

The City of Redlands offers single-family customers two free bulky item pickups per year, up to three items each. Schedule on the first business day of the month (first 30 requests). Paid special hauls cost $56.65 for the first item and $28.32 per additional item.

Free pickups: 2 per year, up to 3 items each (single-family)Schedule free: First business day of month; first 30 requests

🌙 Curfew LawsFull curfew laws guide →

📐 Building Setbacks & ZoningFull building setbacks & zoning guide →

🌳 Tree ProtectionFull tree protection guide →

Overall: What to Expect in Redlands

Redlands has 100 ordinances on file across 18 categories. Of these, 21 are rated permissive, 59 moderate, and 20 strict. This gives you a general sense of how tightly regulated daily life is in Redlands 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.

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