The City of Sacramento has been officially recognized as a Clean California Community, becoming one of 100 communities and organizations statewide to earn the designation through the Clean California initiative.
Governor Gavin Newsom recently announced the statewide milestone, recognizing communities across California for their commitment to litter prevention, beautification, environmental stewardship and community engagement.
The designation recognizes years of coordinated work across City departments, community partners and volunteers to maintain cleaner parks, neighborhoods, waterways and public spaces. Sacramento earned the distinction after meeting all 15 program criteria established by Keep California Beautiful and Caltrans.
The application was submitted on behalf of the City by the Department of Youth, Parks, and Community Enrichment (YPCE), drawing on programs and accomplishments from departments across the City.
“This recognition reflects the collective effort of City staff, residents, volunteers and community partners who care deeply about Sacramento,” said YPCE Director Jackie Beecham. “Every department plays a role in creating clean, welcoming public spaces, and this designation recognizes the work happening across the city every day.”
As part of the designation process, the City highlighted a wide range of ongoing efforts, including community cleanups, illegal dumping prevention and enforcement, environmental education programs, tree planting and beautification projects, volunteer engagement, collection drives and long-term sustainability planning.
“I am so proud of our City for earning the Clean California Community designation and joining Sacramento State, Sacramento Republic FC, and the Wilton Rancheria in this commitment to a greener, cleaner California,” said Vice Mayor Karina Talamantes. “Thank you to Wilton Rancheria Tribal Council Member Leia Ahuactzin for connecting us with the Keep CA Beautiful team and thank you to YPCE for your commitment to volunteerism and our natural green spaces.”
The City also demonstrated measurable results through its volunteer programs. Over the past year, Sacramento recorded a 57% increase in volunteers, a 53% increase in volunteer hours and a 50% increase in tree plantings supporting community beautification efforts.
Among the initiatives highlighted in the application was YPCE’s Volunteer In Parks (VIP) Program, which helps coordinate cleanup projects, tree plantings and park improvement efforts throughout Sacramento.
“Keeping Sacramento clean is truly a community-driven effort,” said Sarah Musser, YPCE Park Maintenance Superintendent. “When people get involved at a young age and continue giving back throughout their lives, they help create stronger neighborhoods and a shared sense of pride in our city.”
The City also highlighted investments in litter prevention infrastructure, public education and partnerships with organizations including the Sacramento Tree Foundation, SMUD, neighborhood associations and local nonprofits.
The Clean California Community Designation Program is part of Governor Newsom’s $1.2 billion Clean California initiative, a statewide effort launched in 2021 to clean public spaces, reduce litter and strengthen community partnerships. Since the program began, Clean California has funded 317 projects statewide and removed more than 3.8 million cubic yards of litter from highways and public spaces.
Communities seeking designation must meet at least 10 of 15 criteria demonstrating a long-term commitment to litter reduction, beautification and environmental enhancement. Sacramento exceeded that threshold by completing all 15 criteria.
As part of the designation, Sacramento will receive official Clean California Community signage, educational resources, membership with Keep California Beautiful and statewide recognition for its efforts.
Residents interested in volunteering at upcoming cleanup and beautification events can learn more through the City’s VIP page.
