How Santa Monica Handles Landscaping Rules: A Practical Guide

Santa Monica maintains 107 local ordinances across all categories, and 8 of those deal specifically with landscaping rules. Here is a breakdown of what the city actually requires, what is prohibited, and where Santa Monica falls on the strict-to-permissive spectrum compared to other cities.

Tree Trimming

Trimming public trees in Santa Monica requires a Public Works permit under SMMC Ch. 7.40. No person may remove, cut, trim, prune, or injure any public tree without a permit. Trees must be protected during construction with guards or protectors.

Key details: Permit: Required for all public tree work. Construction: Trees must be protected. Code: SMMC Ch. 7.40. Public Trees: 35,000+ across 250+ species.

Unauthorized trimming or removal of public trees is a violation of SMMC Chapter 7.40. Permits must be obtained. Violations subject to administrative citations and potential criminal penalties.

This is one of the stricter rules in Santa Monica's municipal code. If you are unsure whether your situation complies, it is worth checking with the city before proceeding.

Native Plants

Santa Monica encourages drought-tolerant and native plantings. The city's landscaping standards under SMMC Ch. 9.26 promote water-efficient landscapes. CA Gov Code §65595 prohibits cities from banning drought-tolerant landscaping.

Key details: Encouraged: Drought-tolerant and native plants. Code: SMMC Ch. 9.26. State Law: CA Gov Code §65595. Rebates: Landscape rebates available.

Varies by jurisdiction. HOA fines for non-compliance may be unenforceable if state law protects xeriscaping rights.

Weed Ordinances

Santa Monica requires property owners to maintain landscaping and prevent weed growth under SMMC Ch. 13.02. Overgrown vegetation, dying or dead plants, and inadequate ground cover are property maintenance violations.

Key details: Code: SMMC Ch. 13.02. Standard: No overgrown, dying, or dead vegetation. Ground Cover: Required to prevent erosion. Enforcement: Code Enforcement.

Each day a violation continues is a separate offense. Administrative citations under Chapter 1.09 apply. The City may abate nuisances under Chapter 13.06.

Water Restrictions

Santa Monica has strict water conservation rules. Spray irrigation is prohibited 10 AM-4 PM daily. The Water Neutrality Ordinance (SMMC §7.16.050) requires new development to offset water demand. New sprinkler systems are banned for existing landscapes.

Key details: Spray Irrigation: Prohibited 10 AM - 4 PM. Water Neutrality: SMMC §7.16.050. New Sprinklers: Banned for existing landscapes. New Development: Must offset water demand.

Non-compliant landscaping installations may be subject to code enforcement action. The City requires compliance with water-efficient landscape standards for all new and replacement landscaping.

This is not one of those rules that cities tend to ignore. Santa Monica actively enforces its water restrictions requirements.

Grass Height Limits

Santa Monica requires property owners to maintain landscaping under SMMC Ch. 13.02 (Property Maintenance). Overgrown, dying, or dead vegetation is a violation. Landscaping must prevent blowing dust or erosion.

Key details: Code: SMMC Ch. 13.02. Standard: Must be maintained, not overgrown. Dying Vegetation: Must be removed. Erosion: Ground cover required to prevent.

Violations subject to administrative citations under SMMC Chapter 1.09. Each day is a separate violation. The City may pursue abatement under Chapter 13.06 (Nuisance Abatement).

Rainwater Harvesting

Santa Monica strongly encourages rainwater harvesting as part of its water self-sufficiency goal. The city promotes stormwater harvesting through BMPs and infrastructure. Landscape rebates are available for rainwater capture systems.

Key details: Encouraged: Strongly promoted. Rebates: Available for capture systems. Water Neutrality: SMMC §7.16.050. State Law: AB 1750 protects collection.

No penalties for standard residential collection. Large cistern installations without building permit: standard building code violation $100 to $500.

If you are coming from a city with tighter rules, you will find Santa Monica gives residents more flexibility on rainwater harvesting.

Tree Removal & Heritage Trees

Santa Monica Municipal Code Chapter 7.40 (Tree Code) strictly protects public trees. No person may remove, cut, trim, or interfere with any tree on public property without a City permit. The Landmark Tree Program protects exceptional trees on both public and private property. Permits expire in 30 days.

Key details: Public Trees: Permit required for any work. Permit Duration: 30 days. Landmark Trees: Public + private protection. Code: SMMC Ch. 7.40.

Unauthorized removal of or damage to public trees may result in fines, restitution for replacement value, and criminal charges. Removing a designated Landmark Tree without approval may carry enhanced penalties. Tree protection guidelines apply during construction near public trees.

This is one of the stricter rules in Santa Monica's municipal code. If you are unsure whether your situation complies, it is worth checking with the city before proceeding.

Artificial Turf

Santa Monica heavily restricts new turf. New residential properties may use high-water plants (including turf) in no more than 20% of total landscaped area. New commercial properties are prohibited from using turf. Ground cover must be live plant material.

Key details: Residential New: Max 20% turf/high-water plants. Commercial New: Turf prohibited. Ground Cover: Must be live plant material. Mulch: Only around shrubs and trees.

Generally no penalties for installation. Non-compliant drainage may require correction. HOA fines may be unenforceable where state law protects turf rights.

This is one of the stricter rules in Santa Monica's municipal code. If you are unsure whether your situation complies, it is worth checking with the city before proceeding.

The Bottom Line

Santa Monica is tougher than many cities when it comes to landscaping rules. Out of the 8 rules covered here, 4 are rated strict. If you are a homeowner, renter, or business owner in Santa Monica, take the time to understand these requirements before they become a problem. Most violations come with fines, and some repeat violations can escalate.

This guide is based on Santa Monica's current municipal code. Local rules can and do change, so check the individual ordinance pages for the latest details, penalties, and FAQs.