Clearwater vs Tarpon Springs
How do native plants rules compare between Clearwater, FL and Tarpon Springs, FL?
Clearwater and Tarpon Springs have similar restriction levels.
Clearwater, FL
Pinellas County
Clearwater encourages Florida-friendly landscaping with native plant species that conserve water and support pollinators, and Florida Statute 373.185 prohibits both city ordinances and HOA covenants from blocking property owners from installing such landscapes.
View full Clearwater rules →Tarpon Springs, FL
Pinellas County
Tarpon Springs encourages native plants and xeriscaping through its landscape code in Appendix A, with preservation of native vegetation and water-efficient design standards required for new development under the city's zoning ordinance.
View full Tarpon Springs rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Clearwater | Tarpon Springs |
|---|---|---|
| - | - | |
| Code section | - | Appendix A landscape rules |
| Xeriscape | - | Required for new projects |
| Native preservation | - | Encouraged citywide |
| State protection | - | FS 373.185 Florida-friendly |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Clearwater FAQ
Can I replace my lawn with native plants in Clearwater?
Yes. Florida Statute 373.185 protects your right to install Florida-friendly landscaping, and the city actively promotes native plant adoption.
Can my HOA require me to keep grass instead of natives?
No. Florida Statute 373.185 prohibits deed restrictions from preventing Florida-friendly landscaping, though reasonable design and maintenance standards may still apply.
Tarpon Springs FAQ
Am I required to use native plants in Tarpon Springs?
Existing residential properties are not required to use natives, but new commercial and multi-family projects must follow xeriscape and native preservation standards in Appendix A.
Can my HOA stop me from using Florida-friendly landscaping?
No. Florida Statute 373.185 prevents HOAs from prohibiting Florida-friendly landscaping practices, including the use of native and drought-tolerant species.
Where can I find approved native species lists?
The city's landscape code references Florida-friendly plant lists, and University of Florida IFAS Extension publishes recommended species for Pinellas County.
Compare other topics
See how Clearwater and Tarpon Springs compare on other ordinance categories.
Want to add a third city?
Use our full comparison tool to compare up to three cities.
Open Comparison Tool