Native Plants: Burbank vs Los Angeles
How do native plants rules compare between Burbank, CA and Los Angeles, CA?
Los Angeles 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 →Los Angeles, CA
Los Angeles County
Los Angeles actively encourages native plant landscaping through LADWP rebate programs. The turf replacement program offers up to $5 per square foot for converting lawns to California Friendly native landscapes. CA Government Code 65595 prohibits cities from banning drought-tolerant landscaping. MWELO applies to new landscapes over 500 sq ft requiring water-efficient design.
View full Los Angeles rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Burbank | Los Angeles |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | - |
| Turf Rebate | - | Up to $5/sq ft from LADWP |
| State Law | - | CA Gov Code 65595 protects native landscaping |
| MWELO | - | Applies to new landscapes over 500 sq ft |
| Education | - | LADWP LAOLA workshops available |
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.
Los Angeles 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 Los Angeles ordinances.
Are there rebates for replacing my lawn?
Los Angeles or your water utility may offer rebates for lawn replacement with drought-tolerant landscaping. Contact your local water provider.
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