Native Plants: Clovis vs Selma
How do native plants rules compare between Clovis, CA and Selma, CA?
Clovis and Selma have similar restriction levels.
Clovis, CA
Fresno County
Native and drought-tolerant plants encouraged in Clovis. CA Gov Code §65595 prohibits cities from banning drought-tolerant landscaping. MWELO compliance required for new/renovated landscapes over 500 sq ft.
View full Clovis rules →Selma, CA
Fresno County
Selma does not mandate native plant landscaping for existing residential properties but follows California's Model Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance (MWELO) for new construction and major renovations. The MWELO encourages climate-appropriate and drought-tolerant plantings suited to the San Joaquin Valley.
View full Selma rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Clovis | Selma |
|---|---|---|
| State Mandate | MWELO compliance | - |
| HOA Ban | Prohibited (§65595) | - |
| Threshold | >500 sq ft new/reno | New projects over 500 sq ft |
| Recommended | CA natives, Mediterranean | - |
| Guidance | UC Coop Ext | - |
| State Standard | - | MWELO (Title 23 CCR) |
| Existing Homes | - | No native plant mandate |
| Climate Zone | - | San Joaquin Valley, hot-dry |
| Lawn Replacement | - | Permitted, no local ban |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Clovis FAQ
Can I replace my lawn with native plants in Clovis?
Yes, and it's encouraged. CA Gov Code §65595 protects your right to install drought-tolerant landscaping; MWELO design standards apply to larger projects.
What natives work in Clovis's climate?
Valley oak, California poppy, manzanita, ceanothus, deergrass, and salvias thrive in Central Valley heat and minimal rainfall.
Selma FAQ
Does Selma require native plants in my yard?
No. Existing residential properties have no mandate to use native plants. However, new construction and major landscape projects over 500 square feet must comply with state MWELO water-efficiency standards.
Can I replace my lawn with drought-tolerant landscaping in Selma?
Yes. There is no local prohibition on converting traditional lawns to xeriscaping or drought-tolerant plantings. Given the San Joaquin Valley's dry climate, such conversions are encouraged.
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