Show All Answers

1. What do I do if my dog is barking and is causing problems with my neighbors?

Please follow this link to the Humane Society of the United States for some helpful
advice on solving dog barking problems. Humane Society

2. How do I report a rooster crowing in my neighborhood?

Please complete an on-line request form using the link below. A Code Enforcement Officer will investigate whether the property owner has a Crowing Fowl Permit, or is otherwise permitted by their zoning to have a rooster on their property. Request Form

3. How many animals am I able to have on my property?

Please complete an on-line request form by using the link below. A
planner will investigate the number and type of animals you are allowed to have on a
parcel. Request Form

Show All Answers

1. When are elections for the City Council?

The City's election is consolidated with the statewide election in November of each even numbered year.

2. How can I make a request for public records?

Call or visit City Hall at 29844 Haun Road or submit your request here. 

3. Where can I find agendas for the City Council or Planning Commission?

You can find a copy posted at the Kay Ceniceros Center, City Hall, and on this

website.

4. Where can I get a copy of the City's Municipal Code?

Please click here to view the City of Menifee’s Municipal Code. 

Please click here to view the City of Menifee’s Municipal Code Title 9: Planning and Zoning.

Show All Answers

1. What do I do if I am not the owner of the property listed on the Notice?

If you received an Initial/Final Notice and you do not own the property listed, please contact the Menifee Code Enforcement Division at 951-723-1500. Any new owner information is appreciated. Property owner information is provided to the City by the Riverside County Assessor’s Office and notices are sent to the Owner of Record listed on the last county assessment roll. To change or verify property owner information, contact the Riverside County Assessor’s Office at 951-955-6200.

2. My parcel is too wet to cut, and my tractor gets stuck in the mud. What can I do?

Although it may be a preferred method by some property owners, the use of a tractor is not the only method available to abate a parcel.  Even when a tractor is used, it often cannot be used to abate the entire parcel (handwork is needed around the perimeter of the parcel in addition to the tractor work).  If a parcel is too wet for a tractor to operate, it is still the responsibility of the property owner to maintain the parcel; perhaps a tractor is not the most appropriate tool to use.  As an example, there are many parcels in the City that are too steep to allow the use of a tractor, but the property owners still have the responsibility to maintain their parcels, and most of them do maintain their parcels.

3. I cut my weeds before the deadline and my property is clean, so why did I still receive a Notice?

Property owners must maintain their property throughout the year.  If a property is cut prior to the deadline, and the growth returns prior to an inspection, then the property can be found in violation.  Property owners should inspect their properties on a regular basis to check for regrowth, or any new problems, such as dead trees, or items dumped on the property without permission.

4. I cleared my property earlier in the year, but it rained and grew back. Do I have to clean the property again?

Yes.  In the City of Menifee, weed abatement is not always a one-time event.  A second disc or mowing may be necessary; it is the property owner’s responsibility to maintain abatement throughout the Fire Season (Typically from April through November).  

5. I want to abate the weeds on my property, but who can I hire for this type of work?

The Riverside County Fire Department maintains a listing of contractors in the area who perform various types of abatement work.  Although the Fire Department cannot specify or recommend any particular contractor, this list is made available to the public as a resource.

6. When will my property be inspected?

The first notices were mailed to property owners at the beginning of April. Inspections for compliance begin July 1; there is no pre-set schedule for the inspection of any particular parcel.

7. I have always abated my property as I have done since before the City was incorporated. Why am I receiving Notices of Violation?

The City of Menifee has abatement requirements that are different from the previously enforced County standard.  

8. I never received a notice to clear the weeds on my property; can I still be fined and penalized?

Yes.  Please keep in mind that it is your responsibility as the property owner to maintain your property at all times.  Notices issued during the annual Weed Abatement Program serve as courtesy notices. Per Riverside County Ordinance No. 695, “The failure of any person in possession or owner of the property to receive such notice shall not affect the validity of these proceedings.

9. There is debris and garbage on my property; and I didn't put it there – why am I responsible?

If you are the property owner, then you are exclusively responsible for maintaining the condition of that property.

10. How much will it cost to have the City clear my property?

The City’s cost to clear a parcel will be extremely high compared to what the cost would be by hiring a private contractor.  The price for City abatements are set by a contract agreement.

11. How do I cut vegetation on hillsides to prevent erosion?

Vegetation on hillsides or steep slopes will normally require hand work.  Use any cutting or trimming method which leaves the root structure intact.

12. Can I cut and burn abated vegetation?

No. Open burning for fire clearance is not allowed by the Air Quality Management District or this agency.

Show All Answers

1. Can I put an Accessory Dwelling Unit (formerly second unit permit) on my property?

In accordance with state law, all residential zones in Menifee allow for an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) to be built. Each parcel is allowed to have one detached or attached ADU if there is currently a main residence built on-site. The ADU's will need to follow state law and the City of Menifee Municipal Code in order to be built. The maximum size of an ADU is 1,200 square feet of living space (does not include attached garage space). Additionally, the City of Menifee has created a "Permit Ready ADU" program which allows for a streamlined permitting process. This program created pre-designed ADU plans (various floor plans and architectural styles) for the general public to use when building an ADU on their property. For additional information please see the following links: 

Permit Ready ADU Plans

ADU Ordinance

ADU Application

If you have any further questions regarding Accessory Dwelling Units, please contact the Planning Division at 951-723-3741 or by email. 

2. Can I run a business from my residence?

There are two types of businesses that can be based out of a residence: home occupations and home based businesses. These uses include a commercial or service activity conducted at a dwelling, incidental and accessory to the residential use of the dwelling which does not change the character of the dwelling or surrounding area by generating more traffic, noise, odor or storage of materials not normally found in a residential zone. 

Home occupations generally include an administrative office within an existing dwelling on the property with minimal storage needs. Home occupations are allowed in all residential zones. Businesses that are an administrative office only and are in compliance with any additional requirements in the ordinance listed below can submit for a home occupation at the following link (fees may apply): Business License Portal

Home Based Businesses can operate within the existing residence, outside or within a partially enclosed structure. Home based businesses are only allowed in Rural Residential zones. Please refer to the home based business ordinance below prior to submitting an application (fees may apply). Applications can be submitted online through the Menifee Permit Portal or by sending the application and any other requested documents to the Planning Division: Email

Additional regulations can be found in the City of Menifee Municipal Code or at the following link:

Home occupations/Home Based Business Ordinance

Home Based Business Application

For additional information, please contact the Planning Division at 951-723-3741 or by email.

3. What do I need to do to have a temporary outdoor event?

The city has adopted an ordinance with regard to minor and major temporary uses of private property.

There are 2 applications that are required: the Temporary Outdoor Event Application and the accompanying Fire Department Special Event Permit (click here for more information).

You are required to prepare a site plan and complete both applications (except for the case number). Submit the applications and exhibits to the Planning Department at City Hall with the required fees. Please submit your Temporary Outdoor Event Application a minimum of 60 days prior to the start of the event. 

Once you submit your application, you will be given a case number. Take your exhibit and the sign off sheets attached to the Temporary Outdoor Event Application to the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department and Riverside County Environmental Health Department to obtain approval. The City of Menifee will automatically forward your application to the Building and Safety Department, the Engineering Department, and the Fire Department.

The ordinance requires a security deposit to cover staff time in the event that there is trash or damage to city property.The security deposit required is typically $1,500 and must be deposited prior to the approval of the project. A full refund of the security deposit will be provided after the event if there was no damage to city property or clean up required.

4. How many chickens and roosters may I have on my property?

The number of chickens, roosters, and crowing fowl allowed on a property is dictated by the properties zoning. Please see the sections below: 

R-R Zone:

The keeping of crowing fowl is allowed pursuant to the following requirements. Number of crowing fowl allowed:

• Lots between 20,000 square feet and 39,999 square feet In area: Not more than 12 mature female crowing fowl (chickens only) allowed.
• Lots 40,000 square feet or greater: Not more than 50 mature female crowing fowl and 10 mature male crowing fowl allowed for the use of the occupants.

The crowing fowl shall be kept in an enclosed area located not less than 20 feet from any property line and not less than 50 feet from any residence and shall be maintained on the rear portion of the lot in conjunction with a residential use.

R-1 & R-1A Zones:

If a lot is 1 acre or more in area, poultry and crowing fowl (chickens only) may be kept for the use of the occupants of the premises only. Number of crowing fowl allowed:

• Lots between 7,200 square feet and 39,999 square feet in area: Not more than 4 mature female crowing fowl (chickens only) allowed.
• Lots 40,000 square feet or greater: Not more than 12 mature female crowing fowl (chickens only) allowed.

In all cases, the crowing fowl shall be kept in an enclosed area located not less than 20 feet from any property line and not less than 50 feet from any residence and shall be maintained on the rear portion of the lot in conjunction with a residential use.

R-A Zone:

Poultry and crowing fowl allowed for the use of the occupants of the premises only. All poultry and crowing fowl shall be kept in an enclosed area, located not less than 20 feet from any property line and not less than 50 feet from any residence existing at the time such use is established. Number of crowing fowl allowed:

• Lots between 20,000 square feet and 39,999 square feet in area: Not more than 12 mature female crowing fowl (chickens only) allowed.
• Lots 40,000 square feet or greater: Not more than 50 mature female crowing fowl and 10 mature male crowing fowl allowed for the use of the occupants.

The crowing fowl shall be kept in an enclosed area located not less than 20 feet from any property line and not less than 50 feet from any residence and shall be maintained on the rear portion of the lot in conjunction with a residential use

Subject to the provisions of Section 18.28b, the number of mature crowing fowl may be increased up to 50% over each (male and female) of the permitted numbers.

R-2, R-2A & R-3 Zones:

If a lot is 1 acre or more in area, poultry and crowing fowl (chickens only) may be kept for the use of the occupants of the premises only. Number of crowing fowl allowed:

• Single family lots or parcels between 7,200 square feet and 39,999 square feet in area: Not more than 4 mature female crowing fowl (chickens only) allowed.
• Single family lots lots 40,000 square feet or greater: Not more than 12 mature female crowing fowl (chickens only) allowed.

The crowing fowl shall be kept in an enclosed area located not less than 20 feet from any property line and not less than 50 feet from any residence and shall be maintained on the rear portion of the lot in conjunction with a residential use.

R-T-R Zone:

The keeping and raising of poultry and crowing fowl for the use of the occupants of the premises is allowed, provided they are kept not less than 20 feet from any street and not less than 50 feet from any residence. Number of crowing fowl allowed:

• Lots between 20,000 square feet and 39,999 square feet in area: Not more than 12 mature female crowing fowl (chickens only) allowed.
• Lots 40,000 square feet or greater: Not more than 50 mature female crowing fowl and 10 mature male crowing fowl allowed for the use of the occupants of the premises.

The crowing fowl shall be kept in an enclosed area located not less than 20 feet from any property line and not less than 50 feet from any residence and shall be maintained on the rear portion of the lot in conjunction with a residential use.

Subject to the provisions of Section 18.28b, the number of mature crowing fowl may be increased up to 50% over each (male and female) of the permitted numbers.

A-1 Zone:

The keeping and raising of crowing fowl is allowed pursuant to the following requirements. Number of crowing fowl allowed:

• Lots between 20,000 square feet and 39,999 square feet in area: Not more than 12 mature female crowing fowl (chickens only) allowed.
• Lots 40,000 square feet or greater: Not more than 50 mature female crowing fowl and 10 mature male crowing fowl allowed for the use of the occupants.

The crowing fowl shall be kept in an enclosed area located not less than 20 feet from any property line and not less than 50 feet from any residence and shall be maintained on the rear portion of the lot in conjunction with a residential use.

Subject to the provisions of Section 18.28b, the number of mature crowing fowl may be increased up to 50% over each (male and female) of the permitted numbers.

A-2 & A-D Zones:

The keeping and raising of crowing fowl is allowed pursuant to the following requirements. Number of crowing fowl allowed:

• Lots between 20,000 square feet and 39,999 square feet in area: Not more than 50 mature female crowing fowl and 10 mature male crowing fowl is allowed for the use of the occupants of the premises.
• Lots 40,000 square feet or greater: Not more than 100 mature female crowing fowl and 20 mature male crowing fowl allowed for the use of the occupants of the premises.

The crowing fowl shall be kept in an enclosed area located not less than 20 feet from any property line and not less than 50 feet from any residence and shall be maintained on the rear portion of the lot in conjunction with a residential use.

Subject to the provisions of Section 18.28b, the number of mature crowing fowl may be increased up to 50% over each (male and female) of the permitted numbers.

W-2 Zone:

Less than 1 Acre:

The keeping or raising of not more than 12 mature female crowing fowl on lots or parcels not less than 20,000 square feet for the use of the occupants of the premises. The crowing fowl shall be kept in an enclosed area located not less than 20 feet from any property line and not less than 50 feet from any residence and shall be maintained on the rear portion of the lot in conjunction with a residential use.

1 Acre or greater:

The keeping or raising of not more than 50 mature female crowing fowl and 10 mature male crowing fowl on lots or parcels not less than 1 acre for the use of the occupants of the premises. The crowing fowl shall be kept in an enclosed area located not less than 20 feet from any property line and not less than 50 feet from any residence and shall be maintained on the rear portion of the lot in conjunction with a residential use.

Subject to the provisions of Section 18.28b, the number of mature crowing fowl may be increased up to 50% over each (male and female) of the permitted numbers.

R-D Zone:

The keeping and raising of crowing fowl is allowed for the use of the occupants of the premises only pursuant to the following requirements. Number of crowing fowl allowed:

• Lots between 20,000 square feet and 39,999 square feet in area: Not more than 12 mature female crowing fowl (chickens only) allowed.
• Lots 40,000 square feet or greater: Not more than 50 mature female crowing fowl and 10 mature male crowing fowl allowed for the use of the occupants.

The crowing fowl shall be kept in an enclosed area located not less than 20 feet from any property line and not less than 50 feet from any residence and shall be maintained on the rear portion of the lot in conjunction with a residential use. 

Subject to the provisions of Section 18.28b, the number of mature crowing fowl may be increased up to 50% over each (male and female) of the permitted numbers.

For more information see also: Section 18.28b. Crowing fowl permit.

5. How may dogs/cats may I have on my property?

Dogs

One to four (1-4) dogs on a property is allowed without a kennel permit issued from the Planning Department.

The city defines "any building, structure, enclosure, or premises whereupon, or within which, 5 or more dogs, 4 months of age or older, are kept or maintained" as a kennel/cattery. Therefore, to have 5 or more dogs on your property, you will need a kennel permit. For information on kennel permits, please contact the Community Development Department at 951-723-3741. 

Cats

One to nine (1-9) cats on a property is allowed without a cattery permit issued from the Planning Department. 

The city defines "any building, structure, enclosure, or premises whereupon, or within which, ten or more cats, four months of age or older, are kept or maintained. Therefore, to have 10 or more cats on your property, you will need a cattery permit. For information on cattery permits, please contact the Community Development Department at 951-723-3741.

Please note: The allowance of kennels and catteries vary depending on the zoning classification of the property and the number of dogs/cats being requested. For more information, please refer to the City's Animal Keeping Ordinance.

6. Where can I find more information regarding septic in Quail Valley?

Please refer to the following link regarding the Quail Valley Septic Tank Moratorium. 

Quail Valley Septic Moratorium

Additional links can be found below:

Santa Ana Regional Water Quality Board

Eastern Municipal Water District

Show All Answers

1. Why do I have to call 911? If I call the fire station directly, wouldn't it save time?

Menifee Firefighters might not be at the station when you call. Even if they are, they will still have to activate 911 so that other emergency responders are notified. On the other hand, the 911 system is designed to save valuable seconds. When you dial 911, the system quickly locates and routes the call to the sheriff or fire unit that is closest to your location.

2. Do I need to put a smoke detector in every room? How many do I need?

At a minimum, smoke detectors should be placed outside each sleeping area and on every level of the home. On floors without bedrooms, detectors should be installed in or near living areas such as dens, living rooms, or family rooms. Remember to vacuum out and test the detectors regularly and don’t forget to change the batteries at least once a year.

3. What kind of fire extinguisher should I buy for my home?

Homeowners should buy an extinguisher that can handle Class A, B, and C fires. This type of extinguisher is designed to put out the types of fires that usually occur in homes including wood, paper, flammable liquids, and electrical fires.

Show All Answers

1. Why Live in Menifee?

People live in Menifee because the City offers a great quality of life and high level of services compared to other cities in the region. In just eight years alone, Menifee has grown by 36%. With the population expected to increase in the next decade, the City wishes to maintain the quality of local services that make Menifee a desirable place to live, work, and visit.

2. Did you know?

In the last five years alone, the State has taken $20 million from the City. In the next five years, that number is projected to grow to $49 million.

Menifee needs dedicated, locally-controlled funding source that cannot be taken by Sacramento to maintain vital City services including public safety, traffic congestion reduction, and our quality of life.

3. What is the City doing to address Sacramento takeaways and maintain vital city services?

In 2016, community meetings, town halls and workshops were held to solicit feedback about community priorities for locally-controlled funding that will maintain our quality of life. Top City and community priorities include:

• Maintaining 911 emergency response times


• Maintaining local streets and roads


• Repairing local interchanges and overpasses


• Improving traffic circulation


• Maintaining local police, fire and paramedic services

To address community priorities, the Menifee City Council on August 3 placed the Menifee Public Safety, Traffic Congestion Relief, and Vital City Services Measure on the November ballot. If enacted, the measure would provide locally-controlled funding to maintain vital services including police, fire and paramedic services, parks, local road and street maintenance, and improve traffic circulation, reduce congestion, and make our streets safer for drivers and pedestrians.

With crime from surrounding communities increasing, now is not the time to make cuts to police protection and the number of officers on our streets. Menifee is already a dozen officers below what is recommended and that number will continue to rise as our population grows. Locally-controlled funding that cannot be taken by the State will help maintain police protection and the number of officers on our streets.

4. How can we be sure the funding will go to local vital services?

If enacted, the Menifee Public Safety, Traffic Congestion Relief, and Vital City Services Measure will include strict accountability provisions such as annual, independent financial audits to ensure the funds are used efficiently, effectively and as promised and by law, must be spent locally and cannot be taken by state government.

5. Where can I get more information?

If you would like to find out more about maintaining vital city services or to request a more in-depth presentation to your community group, please contact Gina Gonzalez at ggonzalez@cityofmenifee.us or (951) 672-6777.

Show All Answers

1. Who do I contact if I live in a mobile home park?

California Housing and Community Development maintains jurisdiction over all units located inside a mobile home park.

2. Who do I contact if I do not live in a mobile home park?

The City of Menifee maintains jurisdiction on all units that are on private property. However, anything pertaining specifically to the interior or the roof of a mobile home unit is still under the jurisdiction of the California Housing and Community Development Department.

3. Do I need a permit to add a permanent foundation system to an existing mobile home?

Yes

4. I want to replace my existing mobile home unit with a new one. Do I need a permit even if it is going in the same place as the existing unit?

Yes. You will also be required to receive approval from the Planning Department prior to permit issuance.

5. I have a mobile home on my property and I want to add a second unit. Do I need a permit?

Yes. You will need to contact our Planning Department to discuss the requirements for adding a second unit to your property.

6. I have a piece of vacant land and I want to add a mobile home unit to the property to live in. Where do I start?

Please refer to the form titled “Mobile Home Installation Requirements on Vacant Lot.”

7. Is there an age limit on the mobile home unit I wish to install?

No. There is no age limit for mobile homes, however any unit that was manufactured after April 30, 2011 is required to have automatic fire sprinklers installed or retro-fitted per Riverside County Fire Department Ordinance 787. Please refer to the form titled “Fire Sprinkler Requirements.”