Fresno saw big changes in 2024 as the city updated its municipal laws. From bringing back car culture to setting controversial rules for street vendors, there’s a lot to unpack about how the city is reshaping its streets and spaces. Here are some that you may find interesting:

1: Bringing Back Cruising

Fresno lifted its cruising ban, bringing lowriders back to the streets. In the ’80s, the city banned cruising due to concerns about traffic, noise, and crime. But with California’s new law (AB 436) legalizing cruising, Fresno followed suit. In January 2024, the city council voted to repeal its local ban, allowing lowriders to cruise freely through town, just like in other cities across California. This change celebrates Fresno’s car culture while aligning with statewide rules, offering more freedom on the streets.

2: Homeless Encampments 

With the backing of Gov. Gavin Newsom, the city introduced a crackdown on homeless encampments in public places. The goal: Ensuring that public spaces like parks and sidewalks are clear of long-term encampments. This bill, which made its way into the spotlight in July, clarified and expanded rules already in place to keep public spaces safe, clean, and accessible. However, this move sparked controversy, as it raised concerns about the treatment of the homeless and the effectiveness of these measures.

3: Street Vending

Fresno is making progress with a new sidewalk vending bill that aims to regulate and support small businesses in the city. Introduced in November 2024, the bill set clear guidelines for individuals looking to sell goods or services on the sidewalks. With this new framework in place, the city is working to ensure vending is organized and accessible for entrepreneurs and pedestrians.

For many, vending is a critical source of income, but navigating the new regulations can take a toll.

4:  Streamlining Subdivision Revisions

Bill B-4, introduced in March changed Section 4304 of Fresno’s Municipal Code to allow tentative map amendments to be approved if either a mistake or a change in circumstances occurs, rather than both. This change could simplify the approval process for subdivision revisions and improve development processes

5: City Attorney’s Powers

The ordinance gave the Fresno City Attorney more tools to investigate violations, including issuing subpoenas, reviewing documents, and gathering evidence for city, state, and federal cases. This change is important for making sure laws are followed and promoting transparency and accountability in Fresno’s legal system, which is vital to society.

6: Security Fencing 

This bill amended Fresno’s fencing rules, restricting barbed and razor wire to specific situations, such as keeping animals or in areas next to freeways and railroads. It also banned razor wire near homes, schools, and parks, with exceptions for temporary or certain commercial uses. Permits are required for fences on public land, and all fences must be maintained in good condition to prevent legal issues.

7: Short-Term Rentals

A new law in Fresno that renters would want to know, issued in June, law allows property owners to remove unauthorized guests from short-term rentals and hotels. If the guest has overstayed without a formal rental agreement and the owner has already requested their departure, the property owner can file a complaint with Fresno Police. If the guest refuses to leave, he or she may face misdemeanor charges, fines, or even imprisonment. 

8: City Attorney’s Budget Power

The city updated contracting rules for the City Attorney’s office, allowing contracts for Code Enforcement services to be signed up to $100,000, doubling the previous limit set in 2019. This change, made to keep pace with inflation and avoid service delays, rescinds the previous 2019 resolution and grants the City Attorney increased authority to streamline operations.

9: Breeding Regulations 

Fresno updated pet laws to tackle overcrowding by requiring dogs over five months old to be spayed or neutered, unless owners have a special license or breeding permit. Puppies can’t leave the nest until 8 weeks old, and breeders need to renew permits every year—because every furry friend deserves the best start in life!

 

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10: Businesses Boot Trespassers

Fresno is empowering local businesses to enforce property rights and remove trespassers from privately owned, public spaces. So just some advice, if you’re asked to leave, you’d better listen. Violators could face a fine, jail time, or both!

11: Control of Alley Traffic

Fresno expanded the power to regulate vehicle and pedestrian traffic in certain alleys to improve safety and manage traffic. The new rules aim to address concerns and ensure smoother flow in specific areas!

12: Fresno’s Trees Get TLC

A new law enforces stricter rules around tree care, ensuring better protection for the city’s greenery and environment. From stricter guidelines on tree removal to improved planting and maintenance practices, these updates aim to keep our urban forest thriving. It’s all about giving trees the love they deserve.

13: Speed Zones

Fresno is updating its speed zones across the city to help keep traffic flowing safely. The new standards are based on state law, city officials said. The city conducted a speed survey for the roads. The new limits (rounded by five) are set at the 85th percentile of traffic speed.