Native Plants: Castro Valley vs San Leandro
How do native plants rules compare between Castro Valley, CA and San Leandro, CA?
San Leandro has fewer restrictions than Castro Valley.
Castro Valley, CA
Alameda County
Native and drought-tolerant plants are encouraged throughout Alameda County. State MWELO requires climate-appropriate plants for new landscapes, and EBMUD/ACWD offer rebates for lawn-to-native conversions.
View full Castro Valley rules →San Leandro, CA
Alameda County
San Leandro encourages California native and drought-tolerant plants. MWELO applies to new landscapes over 500 sq ft with water budget calculations.
View full San Leandro rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Castro Valley | San Leandro |
|---|---|---|
| MWELO threshold | 500 sqft new landscape | - |
| Rebates | EBMUD, ACWD lawn conversion | - |
| Suggested natives | Live oak, toyon, Ceanothus | - |
| Fire-wise list | CAL FIRE maintains | - |
| Technical help | ACRCD free | - |
| MWELO | - | Over 500 sq ft |
| HOA Limits | - | Civ Code 4735 |
| Plant Guide | - | EBMUD / Bay-Friendly |
| Native % | - | No mandate for private |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Castro Valley FAQ
Do I have to plant natives?
No, but MWELO requires climate-appropriate species in new and major renovation landscapes, and rebates are tied to low-water-use plant palettes.
Are natives fire-safe?
Many but not all; chamise and dry grasses are flammable, while coast live oak and redwood are relatively fire-resistant; use CAL FIRE Ready For Wildfire plant guidance.
San Leandro FAQ
Can my HOA ban my drought-tolerant front yard in San Leandro?
No. California Civil Code 4735 voids HOA rules that prohibit drought-tolerant or low-water landscaping.
Who enforces this in San Leandro?
San Leandro code enforcement at (510) 577-3394 handles most complaints. Alameda County agencies handle regional issues.
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