Native Plants: Antioch vs Richmond
How do native plants rules compare between Antioch, CA and Richmond, CA?
Antioch and Richmond have similar restriction levels.
Antioch, CA
Contra Costa County
Antioch encourages xeriscape and drought-tolerant landscaping under MWELO (CCR Title 23, Chapter 2.7) and state law AB 1572, which bans watering non-functional turf at commercial/institutional sites by 2027. Residents are free to replace lawns with drought-tolerant plants; CCWD offers turf-replacement rebates.
View full Antioch rules →Richmond, CA
Contra Costa County
Xeriscaping is encouraged in Richmond. Under California Civil Code 4735 and Government Code 53087.7, HOAs and cities cannot prohibit drought-tolerant landscaping or artificial turf as a water conservation measure. EBMUD offers rebates for lawn conversions. New landscapes over 500 sq ft must comply with MWELO.
View full Richmond rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Antioch | Richmond |
|---|---|---|
| MWELO threshold | Landscapes >500 sq ft | - |
| Mulch depth | 3 inches minimum (non-turf) | - |
| AB 1572 | Non-functional turf ban (CII sites) | - |
| HOA protection | Civ Code 4735 voids lawn mandates | - |
| Rebates | CCWD turf replacement $1-$2/sq ft | - |
| - | - |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Antioch FAQ
Can my HOA force me to maintain a green lawn?
No. California Civil Code 4735 prohibits HOAs from requiring turf during drought and bans penalties for drought-tolerant yards that are adequately maintained.
Do I need a permit to replace my front lawn with gravel and native plants?
For residential properties no permit is required if the footprint is under 500 sq ft or if no irrigation system permit is needed. Check with Public Works if you are modifying storm drainage.
Richmond FAQ
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