Native Plants: Bonsall vs San Diego
How do native plants rules compare between Bonsall, CA and San Diego, CA?
San Diego has fewer restrictions than Bonsall.
Bonsall, CA
San Diego County
San Diego County encourages native and drought-tolerant plant use in landscaping. Section 86.709 requires water-efficient landscaping for new development. The County prohibits certain high-water-use invasive species. Native San Diego plants can reduce water use by 70–80% compared to turf.
View full Bonsall rules →San Diego, CA
San Diego County
San Diego encourages native plant landscaping through the County's Native Landscape Program approved in December 2022 and the San Diego County Water Authority's Nifty 50 guide of water-wise native plants. The City's Model Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance (MWELO) promotes drought-tolerant landscaping. Native plants support local biodiversity and are adapted to the region's Mediterranean climate.
View full San Diego rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Bonsall | San Diego |
|---|---|---|
| Ordinance | County Code §86.709 | - |
| Water Savings | 70–80% vs. traditional turf | - |
| Prohibited Plants | Paper mulberry, pampas grass, others | - |
| Fire Zones | Fire-resistant native plants recommended | - |
| Resources | County Landscape Optimization Service | - |
| Native Landscape Program | - | County program approved December 2022 |
| Nifty 50 Guide | - | SDCWA's recommended water-wise native plants |
| MWELO | - | Model Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance applies |
| Rebates | - | Extra $1/sq ft for native plants in turf replacement |
| Benefits | - | Biodiversity, drought tolerance, reduced water use |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Bonsall FAQ
Does San Diego County require native plants in landscaping?
The County requires water-efficient landscaping for new development under Section 86.709, which strongly favors native and drought-tolerant species. Existing properties are encouraged but not mandated to use native plants.
What plants are prohibited in San Diego County?
Certain high-water-use and invasive species are prohibited, including paper mulberry and pampas grass. These plants either require excessive water or threaten San Diego's natural ecosystem.
Where can I find a list of recommended native plants?
The County's Landscape Optimization Service and the San Diego County Water Authority provide lists of water-wise plants appropriate for the region.
San Diego FAQ
Does San Diego require native plants in new landscaping?
Not strictly required, but the MWELO strongly encourages water-efficient landscaping. The Waterscape Rebate Program provides an additional $1/sq ft bonus for California native plants in turf replacement projects.
Where can I find recommended native plants for San Diego?
The San Diego County Water Authority publishes the Nifty 50 guide listing attractive, non-invasive, water-wise native plants suited to the region.
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