Water Restrictions: Costa Mesa vs Garden Grove
How do water restrictions rules compare between Costa Mesa, CA and Garden Grove, CA?
Costa Mesa and Garden Grove have similar restriction levels.
Costa Mesa, CA
Orange County
Costa Mesa requires approved irrigation systems for new development under its landscaping standards. Automatically time-controlled sprinklers are required for commercial, industrial, and multi-family sites. Drought restrictions from the Mesa Water District apply.
View full Costa Mesa rules →Garden Grove, CA
Orange County
Garden Grove enforces Landscape Water Efficiency Provisions for new development and major renovations. Irrigation systems must comply with the Model Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance. Drought restrictions from the Municipal Water District of Orange County also apply.
View full Garden Grove rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Costa Mesa | Garden Grove |
|---|---|---|
| Irrigation Required | For all landscaped areas | - |
| Auto Timers | Commercial/multi-family required | - |
| Water Provider | Mesa Water District | MWDOC via local agencies |
| New Development | MWELO compliance required | - |
| Water Waste | Prohibited with fines | - |
| Water Efficiency | - | Required for new development |
| Irrigation | - | Auto-timer systems required |
| Drought Rules | - | State and local restrictions apply |
| Code Section | - | GGMC §9.18.120 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Costa Mesa FAQ
What are the water restrictions in Costa Mesa?
Approved irrigation systems are required. Drought restrictions from Mesa Water District apply during emergencies. Water waste including runoff and watering during rain is prohibited.
Do new projects need water-efficient landscaping?
Yes. New development must comply with the Model Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance including water budgets and efficient irrigation under the landscaping standards.
Who provides water to Costa Mesa?
The Mesa Water District serves Costa Mesa and implements drought-stage water restrictions during declared water emergencies.
Garden Grove FAQ
What are the water restrictions in Garden Grove?
Water efficiency provisions apply to new development under GGMC Section 9.18.120. Drought restrictions from MWDOC and state regulations may limit outdoor watering days and times during water emergencies.
Do I need an automatic irrigation system?
For qualifying new development and major renovation projects, automatically controlled irrigation systems are required to comply with the Landscape Water Efficiency Provisions.
Who provides water to Garden Grove?
Garden Grove is served by the Garden Grove Water Division and receives wholesale water through the Municipal Water District of Orange County.
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