Native Plants: Aurora vs Centennial
How do native plants rules compare between Aurora, CO and Centennial, CO?
Centennial has fewer restrictions than Aurora.
Aurora, CO
Arapahoe County
Aurora encourages native and xeric landscaping and requires that at least 60 percent of non-turf landscape area on new development use low-water plants from the city's approved plant list.
View full Aurora rules →Centennial, CO
Arapahoe County
Arapahoe County encourages xeriscape and native plant landscaping. Colorado HB 19-1050 and SB 23-178 prohibit HOAs from banning drought-tolerant landscaping. Resource Central and Denver Water rebates up to $3 per sq ft apply for lawn replacement in participating service areas.
View full Centennial rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Aurora | Centennial |
|---|---|---|
| Native/xeric minimum | 60 percent of non-turf area | - |
| Authority | UDO Article 146 | - |
| Plant list | Aurora Water Approved List | - |
| Turf cap | ~40-45 percent residential | - |
| HOA protection | CRS 37-60-126 | - |
| HOA Protection | - | HB 19-1050 / SB 23-178 |
| Rebates | - | $1-$3 per sq ft |
| Noxious Weeds | - | Control required |
| HOA Designs | - | 3 xeriscape options required |
| State Law | - | CRS 38-33.3-106.5 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Aurora FAQ
Can my HOA ban native plants?
No. Colorado law (CRS 37-60-126) prohibits HOAs from banning xeriscape, though they may require a landscape plan for aesthetic coordination.
Where can I find the approved plant list?
Aurora Water publishes the Approved Plant List on its Water-Wise Landscape page, with a searchable database of native and low-water species.
Centennial FAQ
Can my HOA force me to keep a grass lawn?
No. HB 19-1050 and SB 23-178 protect your right to install xeriscape. HOAs must offer at least three pre-approved drought-tolerant designs.
Is there a rebate for replacing my lawn?
Yes. Resource Central and Denver Water offer $1-$3 per square foot for turf replacement in most Arapahoe County service areas.
Compare other topics
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