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🌿 Landscaping Rules/Native Plants

Native Plants: Altadena vs Castaic

How do native plants rules compare between Altadena, CA and Castaic, CA?

Altadena and Castaic have similar restriction levels.

Altadena, CA

Los Angeles County

Few Restrictions

Native and drought-tolerant landscaping is encouraged in unincorporated LA County per MWELO and state water conservation mandates. CA Gov Code 65595 prohibits banning native plant gardens. Coastal areas specifically require native species for erosion control landscaping.

View full Altadena rules β†’

Castaic, CA

Los Angeles County

Few Restrictions

Native and drought-tolerant landscaping is encouraged in unincorporated LA County per MWELO and state water conservation mandates. CA Gov Code 65595 prohibits banning native plant gardens. Coastal areas specifically require native species for erosion control landscaping.

View full Castaic rules β†’

Key Facts Comparison

FactAltadenaCastaic
EncouragedMWELO and AB 1881MWELO and AB 1881
Local BansProhibited by state lawProhibited by state law
Coastal AreasNative species requiredNative species required
Water DistrictMay offer rebatesMay offer rebates

Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.

Altadena FAQ

Does LA County require native plants?

No. The county doesn't mandate native plants but encourages them through MWELO's reduced irrigation requirements. Native and drought-tolerant plants require less water, making it easier to meet water efficiency standards.

What is MWELO?

The Model Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance requires new landscaping projects over 500 sq ft to meet maximum applied water allowance standards. It applies to new construction, rehabilitated landscapes, and large new plantings.

Where can I get help with native plant landscaping?

Contact your local water district for free native plant guides and rebates. The Theodore Payne Foundation and the California Native Plant Society have LA-area chapters with resources. Many nurseries specializing in California natives operate in LA County.

Castaic FAQ

Does LA County require native plants?

No. The county doesn't mandate native plants but encourages them through MWELO's reduced irrigation requirements. Native and drought-tolerant plants require less water, making it easier to meet water efficiency standards.

What is MWELO?

The Model Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance requires new landscaping projects over 500 sq ft to meet maximum applied water allowance standards. It applies to new construction, rehabilitated landscapes, and large new plantings.

Where can I get help with native plant landscaping?

Contact your local water district for free native plant guides and rebates. The Theodore Payne Foundation and the California Native Plant Society have LA-area chapters with resources. Many nurseries specializing in California natives operate in LA County.

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