Moving to Selma, CA?

Selma exempts certain construction activities from the general noise ordinance under Section 6-17-9. Construction must still comply with the excessive noise prohibition in Section 6-17-5. Noise permits may be obtained for extended or nighttime work under Section 6-17-10.

Selma regulates amplified music through both its general noise ordinance (SMC 6-17-5) and public address system rules (SMC 6-17-8). Amplified sound exceeding 5 dB over ambient at the property line is a prima facie violation. Permits for amplified sound events are available under Section 6-17-10.

Selma regulates excessive noise under Title VI, Chapter 17 of the City Code. Any noise exceeding the ambient level by more than 5 dB at the property line is a prima facie violation. Residential areas near schools, hospitals, and churches receive additional protections under Section 6-17-7.

Selma applies the same 5 dB-over-ambient standard to industrial noise under SMC Chapter 17. The city has industrial and commercial zones along Highway 99 and the BNSF railroad corridor. Zoning under Title XI separates industrial uses from residential areas.

Selma addresses barking dogs under Section 6-2-10, which prohibits excessive noise and nuisance from animals. Dogs causing repeated disturbances through loud, frequent, or habitual barking may be declared a nuisance. The city limits the number of dogs per household.

Selma establishes decibel measurement criteria in Section 6-17-3 and monitoring procedures in Section 6-17-4. The prima facie violation threshold is 5 dB over the ambient noise level measured at the property line of the affected person (Section 6-17-6).

Outdoor music in Selma is subject to the general noise ordinance (SMC Chapter 17) and public address system rules (SMC 6-17-8). Music exceeding 5 dB over ambient at the property line is a prima facie violation. Event permits are available for community gatherings under Section 6-17-10.

Selma is not located near a major commercial airport. The nearest airports are Fresno Yosemite International (FAT), about 20 miles north, and Selma-based agricultural airstrips. Aircraft noise is regulated by the FAA at the federal level and is generally exempt from local noise ordinances.

Selma does not have a standalone leaf blower ban. Gas-powered and electric leaf blowers are permitted, subject to the general noise ordinance (SMC Chapter 17). Noise exceeding 5 dB over ambient at the property line may still be cited. The SJVAPCD encourages reduced emissions equipment in the San Joaquin Valley.

Selma does not have STR-specific parking requirements. General parking regulations under Title X (Traffic) apply to all residential properties, including those used as short-term rentals. Street parking is available throughout most residential neighborhoods.

Selma does not have STR-specific occupancy limits. General building and housing code standards govern maximum occupancy for residential dwellings. The California Building Code and Selma's Title IV (Building Regulations) set minimum habitable room sizes.

Selma does not mandate specific insurance for short-term rental operators. California law does not require STR-specific liability coverage at the state level. Platforms like Airbnb provide host protection insurance, but operators should carry their own commercial or landlord policy.

Short-term rental guests in Selma must comply with the city's general noise ordinance (SMC Chapter 17). The 5 dB-over-ambient standard applies to all properties, including STRs. Property owners are responsible for guest behavior under the nuisance provisions.

Selma does not impose night caps or maximum rental night limits on short-term rentals. There is no distinction between hosted and unhosted rentals, and no annual cap on the number of nights a property may be rented. General zoning and nuisance rules apply.

Selma does not currently have a dedicated short-term rental ordinance or permit program. STR operations are governed by general zoning regulations under Title XI. Operators must comply with California Revenue and Taxation Code Section 7280 for transient occupancy tax collection.

Selma does not have a dedicated STR registration program. Operators should obtain a general business license from the city. Registration with the California Department of Tax and Fee Administration may be required for TOT remittance if the platform does not handle it.

Short-term rental operators in Selma must collect and remit transient occupancy tax (TOT) on stays of 30 days or less as authorized by California Revenue and Taxation Code Section 7280. The city levies a TOT on lodging establishments within city limits.

Selma is located on the flat agricultural floor of the Central Valley in Fresno County and is not designated as a Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone (VHFHSZ) by CAL FIRE. The city sits at approximately 300 feet elevation on level terrain surrounded by irrigated farmland, placing it well outside the foothill and mountain areas of eastern Fresno County where wildfire risk is concentrated. Because Selma falls within a Local Responsibility Area (LRA) rather than a State Responsibility Area (SRA), the more stringent wildfire building standards and defensible space requirements that apply to wildland-urban interface communities do not apply here. The Selma Fire Department provides structural fire protection for the city's approximately 24,000 residents across six square miles and follows the California Fire Code as adopted locally, but wildfire-specific regulations such as PRC 4291 defensible space mandates, AB 3074 extended defensible space zones, and Chapter 7A WUI building standards are not applicable within Selma city limits. Standard urban fire safety codes, property maintenance requirements, and building construction standards provide the fire protection framework for Selma properties.

Selma regulates outdoor fires under Title VII, Chapter 7 (Prohibited Burning). Open burning is generally prohibited within city limits under Section 7-7-1. Portable fire pits must comply with California Fire Code clearance requirements. The SJVAPCD Rule 4901 restricts wood-burning during curtailment days November through February.

Selma permits only state-classified Safe and Sane fireworks during the Fourth of July season. Dangerous fireworks (those that explode or launch into the air) are banned year-round under Section 7-3-11. Ordinance 2021-3 established administrative fines of $1,000 for a first offense, $1,500 second, and $2,000 third.

Selma requires property owners to maintain clearance of dry grass, weeds, and combustible materials. California PRC 4291 mandates 100 feet of defensible space around structures. Fresno County Fire enforces a 30-foot clearance around structures and along property lines with weed abatement standards.

Selma requires smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms in all residential dwellings under the California Building Code and Health and Safety Code Section 13113.7, which mandates smoke alarms approved and listed by the State Fire Marshal in every dwelling unit intended for human occupancy. The Selma Fire Department and Building Division jointly enforce these requirements for both new construction and existing homes. Smoke alarms must be installed in each bedroom, outside each sleeping area in the immediate vicinity of the bedrooms, and on every level of the dwelling including basements and habitable attics. For new construction and major remodels, alarms must be hardwired to the building electrical system with battery backup and interconnected so that activation of any single alarm causes all alarms throughout the dwelling to sound simultaneously. Carbon monoxide detectors are separately required under HSC 17926 in all dwelling units containing fossil fuel-burning heaters, appliances, or fireplaces, or that have an attached garage. The City of Selma provides a Smoke Detector Affidavit form through its website for use during property transfers and rental compliance verification, confirming that all required smoke and carbon monoxide alarms are properly installed and operational.

Selma prohibits outdoor burning within city limits under Title VII, Chapter 7 of the Selma Municipal Code, specifically SMC 7-7-1 (Burning Prohibited). This prohibition applies to the burning of refuse, yard waste, leaves, construction debris, agricultural waste, and any other combustible materials on both residential and commercial properties throughout the city. The ban is reinforced by the San Joaquin Valley Air Pollution Control District (SJVAPCD) Rule 4103, which independently prohibits residential open burning across Fresno County and the entire San Joaquin Valley air basin due to the region's severe air quality challenges with particulate matter. Selma's location in the Central Valley makes air quality a persistent public health concern, and outdoor burning is one of the activities most strictly regulated. The Selma Fire Department enforces the local burning prohibition, while the SJVAPCD independently enforces air quality violations. Residents must use alternative disposal methods such as curbside green waste collection, composting, or hauling materials to approved disposal facilities. Barbecues and cooking appliances that use charcoal, propane, or natural gas remain exempt from these prohibitions when used exclusively for food preparation.

Backyard recreational fires in Selma are substantially restricted by the combination of SMC 7-7-1, which prohibits open burning within city limits, and the SJVAPCD air quality regulations that independently govern particulate emissions throughout the San Joaquin Valley. Open burning of any kind, including bonfires, burn barrels, and uncontained campfire-style fires, is prohibited on residential properties in Selma. However, contained fire appliances using natural gas or propane that do not produce visible smoke are generally permitted because they are classified as appliances rather than open fires under the California Fire Code. These gas-fueled fire pits, outdoor fireplaces, and similar decorative heating devices must comply with CFC Section 308.1.4 setback requirements, maintaining a minimum 10-foot clearance from structures and combustible materials. Wood-burning fire pits, chimineas, and outdoor wood-burning fireplaces that generate smoke and particulate matter are effectively prohibited by the dual regulatory framework of the Selma burning ban and the SJVAPCD Check Before You Burn program. The Selma Fire Department enforces backyard fire regulations through its prevention division under Fire Marshal Anthony Rivas.

Selma comprehensively regulates RV, boat, and trailer parking under SMC 10-10-33 and the 2024 Zoning Code Update, imposing restrictions on both street parking and on-property storage. Residents may temporarily park an RV on a residential street for up to 72 consecutive hours per month, but only for active loading or unloading purposes such as preparing for a trip or unpacking upon return. Long-term street storage of RVs, boats, or trailers is expressly prohibited. On private property, long-term storage, defined as keeping a vehicle, boat, or trailer in the same location for 48 hours or more, must comply with specific screening and surface requirements outlined in the 2024 Zoning Code Update Section 11-3.1(I)(2). All RVs, boats, and trailers stored outdoors on residential property must be screened from view from public streets, freeways, residential neighborhoods, and open spaces using a wall or fence that matches the primary structure in materials and appearance and complies with applicable height and setback regulations. Parking any of these vehicles on lawns, dirt, gravel, or any other unpaved surface visible from the street is prohibited. Driveway parking for trip preparation is permitted but limited to 48 hours. Living in a travel trailer or RV parked on residential or commercial property is forbidden under SMC 10-10-33(A) and 5-5-2.

Selma establishes specific requirements for driveway construction, use, and parking through the City of Selma Parking Manual (adopted January 2013) and the municipal code. All driveway approaches to private property must be constructed in conformance with the Standard Specifications of the Public Works Department, referencing specific engineering drawings ST-4, ST-5, ST-6, and ST-13 for design and construction details. Backing a vehicle onto or from a public right-of-way is prohibited in all areas except residential zones on streets classified as local streets, with public alleys exempt from this restriction. This rule is designed to reduce traffic conflicts and improve pedestrian safety on busier collector and arterial streets. All vehicles parked on residential property must be on paved, improved surfaces. Parking on front lawns, bare dirt, gravel, or any unpaved area visible from the street is strictly prohibited and enforced through code enforcement. Driveways must not be blocked or obstructed in a manner that prevents normal vehicle ingress and egress, and vehicles may not extend beyond the driveway into the public sidewalk or right-of-way. The driveway width and curb cut dimensions must meet city engineering standards applicable to the zoning district of the property.

Selma regulates street parking through a combination of local ordinances under SMC Title X, Chapter 10 (Stopping, Standing and Parking) and California Vehicle Code provisions that apply statewide. The fundamental time limit for street parking is the 72-hour rule established by California Vehicle Code Section 22651(k), which prohibits any vehicle from remaining parked in the same location on a public street for more than 72 consecutive hours. Selma layers additional local restrictions on top of this state law, including the two-hour commercial vehicle limit under SMC 10-10-26 and the 72-hours-per-month RV loading window under SMC 10-10-33(B). Street sweeping zones throughout the city require vehicles to be moved on posted days and times to allow for public works cleaning operations. Standard California Vehicle Code parking rules apply in Selma, including the prohibition on parking within 15 feet of a fire hydrant under CVC 22514, the requirement to park with right-hand wheels within 18 inches of the curb per CVC 22502, and the prohibition on parking in marked red zones and fire lanes. The City of Selma Parking Manual, adopted in January 2013, provides supplemental standards for street parking throughout the city.

Selma enforces abandoned and inoperable vehicle abatement through a combination of local municipal code provisions and California Vehicle Code Sections 22651 and 22660, which provide the statutory framework for removing vehicles from both public streets and private property. On public streets, any vehicle parked for more than 72 consecutive hours is subject to citation and towing under CVC 22651(k). On private property, abandoned, wrecked, dismantled, or inoperative vehicles are declared public nuisances under CVC 22660, which authorizes the City of Selma to initiate abatement proceedings that can result in the removal of the vehicle at the owner's expense. The city must provide written notice of intent to abate at least 10 days before removing a nuisance vehicle from private property, during which time the property owner may request an administrative hearing to contest the determination. Vehicles that are missing essential components such as engines, transmissions, or wheels, or that have registration expired for more than six months, are typically classified as inoperable and subject to abatement. Selma Code Enforcement handles complaints about abandoned and nuisance vehicles on both public and private property, investigating reports and initiating the appropriate enforcement process.

Selma strictly prohibits parking commercial trucks, truck tractors, and semi-trailers on residential streets under SMC 10-10-26, last updated by Ordinance 2021-4 on October 4, 2021. The prohibition is absolute for residential streets, meaning no commercial motor truck as defined by California Vehicle Code Section 410, truck tractor as defined by CVC Section 655, or semi vehicle may be placed, parked, kept, or maintained on any residential street within the city at any time of day for any duration. On non-residential streets, alleys, rights-of-way, and highways other than state highways, commercial vehicles may not park for more than two consecutive hours unless located in areas specifically designated for commercial vehicle parking under SMC 10-10-27. The restriction targets vehicles that are not commonly found in residential neighborhoods, which typically includes large commercial rigs, box trucks, construction equipment haulers, and heavy-duty vehicles. Standard personal-use pickup trucks are generally not affected by this ordinance. The regulation reflects Selma's position along the Highway 99 corridor, where commercial truck traffic is heavy and the temptation to park commercial vehicles on city streets rather than in designated truck stops or private lots must be managed.

Selma does not impose a blanket overnight parking ban on residential streets, making it more permissive than many California cities that restrict parking during late-night hours. Personal passenger vehicles may be parked on residential streets overnight, provided they remain in compliance with the 72-hour maximum parking duration under California Vehicle Code Section 22651(k) and are not blocking driveways, fire hydrants, red zones, or other restricted areas. However, specific vehicle categories face additional overnight restrictions even in the absence of a general ban. Commercial motor trucks, truck tractors, and semi-trailers are prohibited from parking on residential streets at all times, including overnight, under SMC 10-10-26. Recreational vehicles and trailers are limited to the 72-hour-per-month loading window under SMC 10-10-33(B), which means overnight RV parking is only permitted during an active loading or unloading period. Vehicles parked overnight must comply with all posted restrictions including street sweeping schedules, which may require vehicles to be moved during early morning hours on certain days. The Selma Police Department handles overnight parking enforcement and responds to complaints about vehicles parked in violation of applicable restrictions.

Selma follows California's statewide EV charging infrastructure mandates under AB 1236 (Government Code 65850.7) and AB 970, which require all cities and counties to adopt streamlined, ministerial permitting processes for electric vehicle charging station installations. Under these laws, applications for compliant EV charging stations must be approved administratively without discretionary review, and local zoning regulations cannot prohibit EV charging stations in any zoning district. AB 970, enacted in 2021, further tightened permitting timelines by requiring jurisdictions to determine whether an application is complete within 5 business days for projects with fewer than 26 charging stations, or within 10 business days for larger installations. Once an application is deemed complete, it must be approved or denied promptly based solely on health and safety requirements of applicable law. The California Building Code also requires new residential and commercial construction to include EV-ready electrical infrastructure, ensuring that future charger installation is straightforward. For residential properties in Selma, Level 1 and Level 2 EV charger installations typically require only an electrical permit processed through the Selma Building Division within Community Development. HOAs in Selma cannot unreasonably restrict EV charger installation under California Civil Code Section 4745.

Selma follows California's Good Neighbor Fence Act (Civil Code Sections 841 through 841.4) for shared boundary fences, which establishes a presumption that adjoining landowners share equally in the responsibility for maintaining the boundary fence between their properties. This state law provides a structured process for one property owner to notify their neighbor of the need to repair or replace a shared boundary fence, including a mandatory 30-day response period and cost-sharing provisions that can be enforced through small claims court if the neighbor refuses to contribute. Within Selma, SMC 11-20-14 governs the height, materials, and placement standards for fences on boundary lines, allowing up to six feet in side and rear yard boundary locations. The city does not have a local ordinance requiring the finished or more attractive side of a fence to face the neighboring property, though this practice is considered good neighborly conduct. Corner lots and properties near intersections must comply with visibility triangle requirements that limit fence heights to 42 inches or less within the sight triangle area to maintain safe sight lines for traffic. Property owners should verify exact property boundaries through a professional survey before constructing a fence on or near a boundary line, as encroachment onto a neighbor's property can create legal disputes over trespass and required removal.

Retaining walls in Selma require a building permit when they exceed 4 feet in height measured from the bottom of the footing to the top of the wall, as established by the California Building Code Section 105.2. This height threshold determines whether the wall requires engineered plans and structural review by the Selma Building Division, which is part of the Community Development Department. Retaining walls that support a surcharge, such as a driveway, building foundation, swimming pool, or sloped embankment above the wall, may require permits regardless of height because the additional loading creates structural demands beyond those of a simple earth-retaining wall. The Selma Building Division reviews retaining wall plans for structural adequacy, proper drainage provisions, and compliance with setback requirements for the applicable zoning district. Adequate drainage behind retaining walls is critical in Selma's Central Valley climate, where winter rains and irrigation runoff can create significant hydrostatic pressure against wall structures. Retaining walls that also function as boundary fences between properties are subject to the combined height limitations of SMC 11-20-14, meaning the total height of the retaining wall plus any fence on top is measured from the lower grade level and must comply with the applicable maximum for that location on the property.

Standard residential fences up to six feet in Selma generally do not require a building permit under the California Building Code exemption for fences not exceeding 7 feet in height, as established in CBC Section 105.2. This means that typical wood, vinyl, chain-link, and wrought iron residential fences can be installed without obtaining a building permit from the Selma Building Division, provided they comply with the height, location, and material requirements of SMC 11-20-14. However, several types of fence and wall construction do require building permits, including masonry block walls, concrete walls, retaining walls that retain more than 4 feet of unbalanced fill, and any fence or wall that exceeds 7 feet in height. The 2024 Zoning Ordinance Update addresses fence and wall standards through the Community Development Department and introduces specific requirements for screening walls used to conceal RV and equipment storage. A six-foot solid masonry fence wall is required by the developer at the interface between areas zoned C (Commercial), M (Manufacturing), or R-O (Residential-Office) and any adjacent residential area for noise abatement, and this required masonry wall must be installed at the time of construction. Fence modifications near Highway 99 may require additional Planning Commission review.

Selma regulates fence materials by zoning district under SMC 11-20-14 and the 2024 Zoning Code Update Section 11-2.2(D), with the most significant restrictions applying to hazardous materials in residential areas. Barbed wire is strictly prohibited on fences in all residential zones within the city and is only permitted in commercial and industrial districts, where it is limited to a maximum of four single strands at the top of an otherwise standard fence. Concertina wire and razor wire face even greater restriction, being permitted only in areas zoned exclusively for industrial use. These material restrictions reflect the city's commitment to maintaining safe, neighborhood-compatible fencing while allowing appropriate security measures in commercial and industrial contexts. Screening walls and fences installed to conceal outdoor storage of RVs, boats, and equipment must match the primary residential structure in materials, color, and general appearance to maintain neighborhood aesthetics, as required by the 2024 Zoning Code Update. The required six-foot masonry wall at commercial-residential interfaces must be constructed of solid masonry materials capable of providing effective noise attenuation and visual screening. Standard residential fencing materials including wood, vinyl, chain-link, wrought iron, composite materials, and masonry block are generally accepted throughout Selma, provided they meet the applicable height requirements and are maintained in a safe, structurally sound condition.

Selma enforces the California Swimming Pool Safety Act (Health and Safety Code Sections 115920 through 115929), which requires at least two approved drowning prevention safety features for all new or remodeled residential swimming pools and spas at private single-family homes. Pool barriers that serve as one of these required safety features must meet stringent physical specifications, including a minimum height of 60 inches, a maximum ground clearance of 2 inches, gaps no larger than 4 inches between slats or pickets, and an exterior surface free of protrusions or handholds that would enable a child under five years old to climb over. All pool barrier gates must be self-closing and self-latching, with the latch mechanism positioned at least 54 inches above the ground or otherwise designed to prevent operation by young children. The Selma Building Division inspects pool barriers as part of the final approval process for swimming pool construction permits, and pools that do not meet the barrier requirements will not receive final inspection approval. The Safety Act provides seven categories of approved drowning prevention features, giving property owners flexibility in how they achieve the mandatory two-feature minimum while maintaining the fundamental goal of preventing unsupervised child access to pool water.

Selma's comprehensive fence requirements under SMC 11-20-14 establish a detailed regulatory framework covering height limits by yard location, material restrictions by zoning district, special provisions for commercial-residential buffer interfaces, and standards for screening outdoor storage. The ordinance requires a six-foot solid masonry wall at the boundary between any area zoned C (Commercial), M (Manufacturing), or R-O (Residential-Office) and any adjacent residential area, serving as a noise and visual buffer that must be installed by the developer at the time of construction. In residential zones, standard fences may be up to six feet in side and rear yards, while front yards are limited to 48 inches for open fences and 42 inches for solid walls to maintain neighborhood visibility and streetscape character. Gates are included in the definition of fences, walls, and hedges and are subject to the same height restrictions as the fence they serve. Corner lot properties must comply with sight triangle visibility requirements at intersections, limiting fence height to 42 inches or less within the designated sight area. The 2024 Zoning Code Update consolidated and modernized fence standards, incorporating new provisions for screening requirements, RV storage enclosures, and updated development standards that work in conjunction with the existing SMC 11-20-14 framework.

Selma regulates fence and wall heights through SMC 11-20-14 (Fences; Walls; Hedges), which permits six-foot high fences, walls, and shrubs in side and rear yards but imposes lower limits in front yards to maintain neighborhood visibility and streetscape character. In the required front yard, open fences and shrubs may not exceed 48 inches in height, while solid walls and fences are further restricted to a maximum of 42 inches. The distinction between open and solid fences affects the maximum permitted height by six inches, with the more see-through design earning a slightly higher allowance due to its lesser impact on street visibility. All fences, walls, and hedges include gates as part of the definition, and gates are subject to the same height limits as the fence or wall they serve. A critical safety provision requires all fences and shrubs exceeding 42 inches in height to be set back a minimum of ten feet from the street-side property line when a private driveway accesses a public right-of-way through the side yard, ensuring adequate visibility for vehicles entering and exiting the property. Open or lattice-type fences up to six feet are permitted on school sites. The 2024 Zoning Code Update added provisions for screening walls up to 15 feet for RV and equipment storage.

Selma Municipal Code Title 6 Chapter 2 prohibits dogs from running at large within city limits. Dogs must be restrained by leash, chain, or other tethering device when off the owner's property, and animal control officers are authorized to impound any animal found roaming freely.

Selma does not have a specific ordinance prohibiting wildlife feeding. However, feeding wildlife that attracts nuisance animals or creates unsanitary conditions may be addressed under general nuisance provisions of the municipal code and state fish and wildlife regulations.

Exotic pet ownership in Selma is primarily regulated by California Department of Fish and Wildlife under Title 14 Section 671 of the California Code of Regulations. The state maintains a restricted species list that prohibits possession of most wild and exotic animals without a special permit.

Selma regulates the keeping of fowl, livestock, and wild animals under SMC Title VI, Chapter 2 (Animals), Section 6-2-21 (Prohibition of Fowl, Livestock and Wild Animals), which restricts or prohibits keeping such animals in certain areas based on zoning classification and lot characteristics. The keeping of chickens, roosters, ducks, geese, turkeys, and other poultry, as well as goats, sheep, hogs, cattle, horses, and other livestock, is generally prohibited in standard residential zoning districts where lot sizes are typical of urban development. Agricultural zones and properties with larger parcels may allow livestock and poultry keeping subject to conditions designed to prevent nuisance impacts on neighbors. The City of Selma Animal Services Division, located at 2831 W. Front Street, enforces animal keeping regulations and responds to complaints about prohibited animals on residential properties. Animals kept in any zone must be maintained in sanitary conditions and may not create a nuisance through excessive noise such as rooster crowing, offensive odors from animal waste, attraction of flies and vermin, or unsanitary conditions presenting public health concerns. Residents considering keeping chickens or livestock should verify zoning eligibility with the Selma Community Development Department before acquiring animals, as violations can result in mandatory removal.

Selma does not impose breed-specific restrictions on any dog breed, consistent with California state law that explicitly prohibits breed-specific legislation. California Food and Agricultural Code Section 31683 states that no city or county program for the control of potentially dangerous or vicious dogs may regulate dogs in a manner that is specific as to breed. This means Selma cannot ban, restrict, or impose special requirements on pit bulls, Rottweilers, German Shepherds, Dobermans, or any other breed based solely on the dog's breed identity. Instead, Selma regulates dangerous and vicious animals through a behavior-based system established in SMC 6-2-31 through 6-2-36, which provides a structured administrative process for identifying, classifying, and managing individual dogs that have demonstrated dangerous or vicious behavior through specific documented incidents. Under state law, a dog may be declared potentially dangerous if it has engaged in unprovoked aggressive behavior on two separate occasions within a 36-month period that required a person to take defensive action. A dog is declared vicious if it inflicts severe injury or death on a human being without provocation. The City of Selma Animal Services Division administers the dangerous and vicious animal program, conducting investigations, scheduling hearings, and enforcing conditions imposed on owners of declared dangerous or vicious dogs.

Livestock keeping in Selma is regulated through the zoning ordinance in SMC Title 11, which restricts large animals to agricultural and certain rural residential zones. Keeping horses, cattle, goats, sheep, or swine on standard residential lots is generally prohibited.

Selma does not have a standalone beekeeping ordinance in its municipal code. Beekeeping on residential property is generally governed by Fresno County regulations and California Food and Agricultural Code provisions regarding apiaries, which require registration with the county agricultural commissioner.

Selma does not mandate native plant landscaping for existing residential properties but follows California's Model Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance (MWELO) for new construction and major renovations. The MWELO encourages climate-appropriate and drought-tolerant plantings suited to the San Joaquin Valley.

Selma does not prohibit artificial turf installation on residential properties. Synthetic lawn is an accepted alternative to natural grass and is increasingly popular in the drought-prone San Joaquin Valley as a water conservation measure.

Selma declares weeds, dead vegetation, and combustible plant material on private property to be a public nuisance under SMC Title 8. The city conducts annual weed abatement enforcement requiring property owners to clear lots before fire season, with city-performed abatement costs assessed as liens against noncompliant properties.

Selma Municipal Code Title 8 classifies overgrown weeds, grass, and vegetation as a public nuisance subject to abatement. Property owners must keep grass and weeds cut to prevent fire hazards, pest harboring, and visual blight, with the city authorized to abate at the owner's expense if not corrected.

Selma enforces water conservation measures that include outdoor watering schedules and prohibitions on water waste. As a San Joaquin Valley city in drought-prone Fresno County, Selma follows state water conservation mandates and may implement tiered restrictions during declared drought emergencies.

Selma requires property owners to maintain trees so they do not encroach on public sidewalks, streets, or rights-of-way. SMC Title 10 Chapter 7 addresses encroachments and requires adequate vertical clearance over sidewalks and roadways for pedestrian and vehicle safety.

Rainwater harvesting is legal in Selma under California's Rainwater Capture Act of 2012 (AB 1750). Residents may collect rainwater from rooftops for non-potable uses such as landscape irrigation without a state water right permit, and no local permit is required for most residential rain barrel systems.

Selma does not have a heritage tree ordinance or blanket tree removal permit requirement for private property. Property owners may generally remove trees on their own lots without a city permit, though trees in the public right-of-way are managed by the city public works department.

Selma's zoning ordinance limits customer traffic for home occupations to preserve neighborhood character. Minor home occupations may not receive customers at all, while major home occupations may allow limited customer visits subject to conditions that prevent parking and traffic impacts.

Cottage food operations in Selma are authorized under California's Homemade Food Act (AB 1616). Residents may prepare and sell approved non-hazardous foods from their home kitchen as Class A (direct sales) or Class B (indirect sales) operations after registering with Fresno County Environmental Health.

Selma prohibits exterior signage for home occupations under SMC Title 11 zoning provisions. Home businesses must not display any sign, banner, or advertising visible from the street or public right-of-way that indicates a commercial enterprise operates at the residential address.

Selma requires a business license for all home occupations and may require a zoning clearance letter under SMC Section 11-6-4 to verify the proposed use is compatible with the property's residential zone. The process differs for minor versus major home occupation classifications.

Selma's updated zoning ordinance in SMC Title 11 establishes two categories of home occupations: minor and major. Both require the business to remain clearly secondary to the residential use of the property, with major home occupations subject to additional review and conditions.

California Health and Safety Code Section 1597.45 designates small and large family daycare homes as a residential use by right in all residential zones. Selma may not impose zoning restrictions, conditional use permits, or business license fees on licensed family daycare homes beyond those applied to all other residences.

Selma requires 60-inch pool barriers with self-closing, self-latching gates per California Swimming Pool Safety Act. At least two drowning prevention features required.

Hot tubs in Selma need ASTM F1346 safety covers or pool barriers. Electrical permits and GFCI protection required. Spa water must drain to sanitary sewer.

Swimming pool construction in Selma requires a building permit from the Selma Building Department. All pools must comply with the California Building Code, including the Swimming Pool Safety Act barrier requirements, electrical bonding standards, and plumbing code provisions for drainage and water supply connections.

Selma requires anti-entrapment drain covers, GFCI-protected outlets, and depth markers for residential pools. Fresno County inspects public and semi-public pools.

Above-ground pools in Selma need 60-inch barriers like in-ground pools. Walls under 60 inches require additional fencing. Permits needed for permanent installations.

Tiny homes on foundations are treated as ADUs in Selma (150-1,000 sq ft). Tiny homes on wheels are classified as RVs and cannot be permanent residences.

Selma allows ADUs on any residential lot. Detached up to 1,000 sq ft, JADU up to 500 sq ft. Pre-approved plans available. Impact fees waived under 750 sq ft.

Sheds under 120 sq ft are permit-exempt in Selma. Larger sheds need building permits and must meet zoning setbacks. No habitable use without ADU compliance.

Selma allows garage-to-ADU conversions with no replacement parking required. Fire-rated separations and separate systems needed. Up to 150 sq ft expansion allowed.

Carports in Selma require building permits and must meet setback and lot coverage limits. Open carports may have reduced setbacks. ADU conversion allowed without replacement parking.

All Selma construction projects must implement erosion controls. Projects over one acre need a SWPPP. Disturbed areas must be stabilized within 14 days of final grading.

Selma requires grading permits for drainage-altering work. Lot-to-lot drainage is prohibited. Retaining walls over 4 feet need engineered plans and permits.

Selma prohibits pollutant discharges to the storm drain system under the Fresno-area NPDES permit. Construction projects over one acre need a SWPPP with erosion controls.

Selma participates in the NFIP. New construction in flood zones must be elevated one foot above base flood elevation. Flood insurance required for federally backed mortgages.

Selma bans outdoor cannabis cultivation. Indoor growing allowed with a Community Development Director permit in residential zones. Six-plant state limit applies.

Selma bans all cannabis dispensaries and commercial cannabis operations citywide under Municipal Code Chapter 32. No zoning district permits retail cannabis uses.

Selma uses SolarAPP+ for instant residential solar permits. Standard permits require site plan, building plans, and Title 24 docs. AB 2188 streamlined process applies.

California Solar Rights Act bars Selma HOAs from banning solar panels. HOA conditions cannot add over $1,000 in cost or cut efficiency by more than 10 percent.

Selma allows political signs on private property without a permit. Signs limited to 16 sq ft in residential zones. Public right-of-way placement prohibited.

Selma permits holiday decorations on private property without permits. Displays must not obstruct traffic or cause light trespass. Remove within 30 days after the holiday.

Selma allows garage sale signs on private property without a permit. Signs limited to 6 sq ft. No public property placement. Remove signs when sale ends.

Selma has no snow removal ordinance due to its warm Central Valley climate. Property owners must keep adjacent sidewalks clear of obstructions under general encroachment provisions in SMC Chapter 7.

Selma requires a $20 yard sale permit under SMC 5-17-3 for all residential garage or patio sales. Each household is limited to three sales per year, each lasting up to three consecutive days.

Selma Municipal Code Section 8-1-2 requires solid waste in approved containers with close-fitting lids, capacity between five and thirty gallons, stored out of public view except on collection day.

Selma requires vacant lot owners to keep property free of weeds, rubbish, and debris under SMC Chapter 8-7. Code Enforcement patrols for overgrown vegetation and refuse on unoccupied parcels.

Selma Municipal Code Chapter 8-7 declares property blight a public nuisance. Code Enforcement addresses debris, junk, abandoned vehicles, graffiti, and structural disrepair through a tiered notice and abatement process.

Selma has no standalone dark-sky ordinance. Outdoor lighting is regulated through zoning performance standards requiring fixtures to be directed and shielded to prevent glare on adjacent properties.

Selma addresses light trespass through zoning performance standards and nuisance provisions. Outdoor lighting must be shielded to prevent illumination from spilling onto adjacent properties.

Selma follows California AB 1482 for just-cause eviction. Landlords of covered units must cite a statutory at-fault or no-fault reason under Civil Code 1946.2 to terminate tenancies of 12+ months.

Selma does not operate a mandatory rental registration program or proactive rental inspection program. Landlords must obtain a city business license but are not required to register individual rental units with the city.

Selma has no local rent control ordinance but is covered by California AB 1482. Covered units are subject to an annual rent cap of 5 percent plus CPI, maximum 10 percent total.

Selma provides two free bulky item pickups per household per year through Mid Valley Disposal. Residents can schedule pickups online to dispose of large items that do not fit in standard carts.

Selma provides mandatory curbside collection through Mid Valley Disposal under SMC 8-1-8. Every residence must subscribe, with pickup days varying by neighborhood per the city service map.

Selma SMC 8-1-2 requires solid waste containers stored with close-fitting lids, placed curbside on collection day facing the street with lids closed and spaced apart for automated truck access.

Selma requires separation of recyclables and organic waste under California SB 1383 and AB 341. Blue carts accept commingled recyclables and green carts accept organic waste.

Selma has no local drone ordinance. Recreational operators follow FAA Part 44809 rules requiring visual line of sight, a 400-foot altitude limit, and registration for drones over 0.55 pounds.

Selma has no local commercial drone regulations. Operators must hold an FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate and may need LAANC authorization near Fresno Yosemite International Airport.

Selma SMC Chapter 5-7 requires food truck permits with operating hours of 7:00 AM to 10:00 PM, distance restrictions from intersections and schools, and $2 million liability insurance.