Native Plants: Berkeley vs Hayward
How do native plants rules compare between Berkeley, CA and Hayward, CA?
Berkeley and Hayward have similar restriction levels.
Berkeley, CA
Alameda County
Berkeley encourages California native landscaping through the Bay-Friendly program and EBMUD rebates. Natives reduce water use, provide habitat, and align with fire-wise design in the VHFHSZ.
View full Berkeley rules →Hayward, CA
Alameda County
Hayward supports native and drought-tolerant landscaping. New projects must comply with the state Model Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance.
View full Hayward rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Berkeley | Hayward |
|---|---|---|
| Rebate | Up to 2 dollars/sq ft | Up to 2 dollars/sq ft |
| MWELO | 500+ sq ft residential | - |
| Avoid in fire zone | Juniper, dense rosemary | - |
| Recommended | Oak, Toyon, Ceanothus | - |
| Plans | Planning (510) 981-7410 | - |
| MWELO trigger | - | 500 sq ft or larger |
| Turf cap | - | Limited by MWELO |
| Good species | - | Ceanothus, toyon, oak |
| Irrigation | - | Smart controller required |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Berkeley FAQ
Are all natives fire-safe?
No. Chamise, sagebrush, and manzanita are highly flammable. In the VHFHSZ, choose low-fuel natives like coast live oak, toyon (with spacing), yarrow, and deer grass, and maintain clearance between plants.
Does MWELO apply to my small garden?
MWELO applies to new or rehabilitated residential landscapes 500 square feet or larger. Smaller projects are exempt but still must comply with EBMUD permanent water rules.
Hayward FAQ
Does MWELO apply to my remodel?
Yes if the landscape area is 500 sq ft or more and requires a permit or is part of a new development.
Where can I learn about native plants?
East Bay CNPS chapter and EBMUD water-wise gardening classes are free to the public.
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