Herald, CA Invasive Plant Rules: Prohibited Species (2026)

Sacramento County is subject to the California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) noxious weed regulations, which classify species as A-rated (eradication required), B-rated (containment at local discretion), and C-rated (monitored). The Sacramento Valley is particularly affected by yellow starthistle (Centaurea solstitialis), one of the most problematic invasive plants in California covering millions of acres. Other key invasive species in the Sacramento region include Scotch broom, French broom, giant reed (Arundo donax) along waterways, water hyacinth in the Delta system, and various invasive grasses. The California Invasive Plant Council (Cal-IPC) rates these species by ecological impact. Sacramento County's agricultural department participates in weed management and the county fire prevention programs target invasive species that increase wildfire risk, particularly in the foothill areas east of Sacramento. The Sacramento-Yolo County Weed Management Area coordinates regional invasive plant management. Property owners in fire hazard areas are required to maintain defensible space, which includes removal of invasive species that create fire fuel loads.