Native Plants: Anaheim vs Newport Beach
How do native plants rules compare between Anaheim, CA and Newport Beach, CA?
Anaheim has fewer restrictions than Newport Beach.
Anaheim, CA
Orange County
Anaheim encourages native and water-efficient plants through its Landscape Water Efficiency Ordinance (AMC 10.19). New landscaping projects must meet water budget calculations using drought-tolerant species where feasible.
View full Anaheim rules →Newport Beach, CA
Orange County
Newport Beach encourages drought-tolerant and native plant landscaping through its Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance. New construction and major renovations with 500 square feet or more of landscaping must comply with water-efficient design standards that favor California native and climate-appropriate species.
View full Newport Beach rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Anaheim | Newport Beach |
|---|---|---|
| ETAF Residential | 0.55 | - |
| ETAF Non-Res | 0.45 | - |
| Native Plants | Encouraged | - |
| Code | AMC Ch. 10.19 | - |
| MWELO Threshold | - | 500+ sq ft of new landscaping |
| Water Budget | - | Maximum Applied Water Allowance required |
| Turf Rebates | - | Available through water districts |
| Correction Period | - | 60 days from notice |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Anaheim FAQ
Does Anaheim require native plants?
Not strictly required, but strongly encouraged through water efficiency standards. New landscaping must meet MAWA calculations favoring low-water-use species.
What is the water budget requirement?
New landscapes use an ETAF of 0.55 (residential) or 0.45 (non-residential) under AMC 10.19. Lower water-use plants help meet this budget.
Newport Beach FAQ
Does Newport Beach require native plants in landscaping?
Native plants are not strictly required but are strongly encouraged. The Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance incentivizes native and drought-tolerant species by allowing more favorable water budget calculations for these plants.
Can I replace my lawn with native plants?
Yes. Newport Beach encourages turf conversion to water-efficient landscaping. Contact your water district about turf replacement rebates, which can offset the cost of installing native and drought-tolerant plantings.
Do I need a landscape plan for a home remodel?
If your project involves 500 square feet or more of new or rehabilitated landscaping, you must submit a water-efficient landscape plan with your building permit application for review by the Planning Division.
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