Water Restrictions: Anaheim vs Costa Mesa
How do water restrictions rules compare between Anaheim, CA and Costa Mesa, CA?
Anaheim and Costa Mesa have similar restriction levels.
Anaheim, CA
Orange County
Anaheim's Landscape Water Efficiency Ordinance (AMC 10.19) requires water-efficient irrigation for new landscaping. Automatic timer-controlled systems required. State water restrictions may impose additional limits during drought.
View full Anaheim rules →Costa Mesa, CA
Orange County
Costa Mesa requires approved irrigation systems for new development under its landscaping standards. Automatically time-controlled sprinklers are required for commercial, industrial, and multi-family sites. Drought restrictions from the Mesa Water District apply.
View full Costa Mesa rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Anaheim | Costa Mesa |
|---|---|---|
| Irrigation | Automatic required | - |
| ETAF | 0.55 residential | - |
| Sensors | Required 2,500+ sq ft | - |
| Code | AMC Ch. 10.19 | - |
| Irrigation Required | - | For all landscaped areas |
| Auto Timers | - | Commercial/multi-family required |
| Water Provider | - | Mesa Water District |
| New Development | - | MWELO compliance required |
| Water Waste | - | Prohibited with fines |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Anaheim FAQ
What water restrictions apply to Anaheim landscaping?
New landscapes must meet AMC 10.19 water budgets with automatic irrigation. State permanent restrictions ban watering driveways and ornamental commercial grass.
Does Anaheim offer water conservation rebates?
Yes. Anaheim Public Utilities offers rebates for water-efficient irrigation, turf replacement, and other conservation measures.
Costa Mesa FAQ
What are the water restrictions in Costa Mesa?
Approved irrigation systems are required. Drought restrictions from Mesa Water District apply during emergencies. Water waste including runoff and watering during rain is prohibited.
Do new projects need water-efficient landscaping?
Yes. New development must comply with the Model Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance including water budgets and efficient irrigation under the landscaping standards.
Who provides water to Costa Mesa?
The Mesa Water District serves Costa Mesa and implements drought-stage water restrictions during declared water emergencies.
Compare other topics
See how Anaheim and Costa Mesa compare on other ordinance categories.
Want to add a third city?
Use our full comparison tool to compare up to three cities.
Open Comparison Tool