Native Plants: Bostonia vs Carlsbad
How do native plants rules compare between Bostonia, CA and Carlsbad, CA?
Bostonia and Carlsbad have similar restriction levels.
Bostonia, 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 Bostonia rules →Carlsbad, CA
San Diego County
Water Efficient Landscape ordinance requires climate-appropriate plants. Drought-tolerant and native species encouraged. New development must meet water budgets.
View full Carlsbad rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Bostonia | Carlsbad |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | - |
| Standard | - | Climate-appropriate plants |
| Native | - | San Diego species encouraged |
| Water Budget | - | MAWA required |
| Recycled Water | - | Available for irrigation |
| Code | - | Water Efficient Landscape Ord. |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Bostonia 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.
Carlsbad FAQ
Native plants required?
For new development: climate-appropriate required, native encouraged.
Recycled water?
Available. Carlsbad doubled recycled water plant capacity.
Existing landscaping?
Not retroactively required but conservation encouraged.
Compare other topics
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