Native Plants: Burbank vs Lakewood
How do native plants rules compare between Burbank, CA and Lakewood, CA?
Lakewood has fewer restrictions than Burbank.
Burbank, CA
Los Angeles County
Burbank's Sustainable Water Use Ordinance bans irrigating ornamental turf on public street medians and encourages drought-tolerant landscaping; new and rehabilitated landscapes must also comply with California's Model Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance (MWELO).
View full Burbank rules →Lakewood, CA
Los Angeles County
Lakewood may encourage or require native and drought-tolerant landscaping. Some areas restrict traditional grass lawns in favor of water-efficient alternatives.
View full Lakewood rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Burbank | Lakewood |
|---|---|---|
| Code Section | BMC 8-2-304(A)(14) (median turf) + CCR Title 23 Sec. 490-495 (MWELO) | - |
| Median Turf | Irrigating ornamental turf on public street medians prohibited | - |
| New Landscapes | Must meet California MWELO water-efficiency standards | - |
| Existing Lawns | Conversion encouraged via rebates, not mandated | - |
| Xeriscaping | - | Encouraged or required |
| HOA | - | Cannot ban in many states |
| Rebates | - | May be available |
| Invasive Species | - | Removal may be required |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Burbank FAQ
Does Burbank require drought-tolerant landscaping?
For new or substantially renovated landscapes, Burbank applies California's Model Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance (CCR Title 23, Sec. 490-495), which limits high-water plants and favors low-water/native species; existing private lawns are not required to convert.
Can the city water grass on street medians?
No. BMC 8-2-304(A)(14), a year-round Stage I measure of the Sustainable Water Use Ordinance, prohibits irrigating ornamental turf on public street medians.
Lakewood FAQ
Can my HOA force me to keep a grass lawn?
Many states prohibit HOAs from banning xeriscaping or native plant gardens. Check your state laws and Lakewood ordinances.
Are there rebates for replacing my lawn?
Lakewood or your water utility may offer rebates for lawn replacement with drought-tolerant landscaping. Contact your local water provider.
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