Native Plants: Downey vs Santa Monica
How do native plants rules compare between Downey, CA and Santa Monica, CA?
Downey has fewer restrictions than Santa Monica.
Downey, CA
Los Angeles County
California law prohibits cities from banning drought-tolerant and native plant landscaping (Gov Code 65595). Downey's MWELO compliance encourages water-efficient and native plant installations.
View full Downey rules →Santa Monica, CA
Los Angeles County
Santa Monica encourages drought-tolerant and native plantings. The city's landscaping standards under SMMC Ch. 9.26 promote water-efficient landscapes. CA Gov Code §65595 prohibits cities from banning drought-tolerant landscaping.
View full Santa Monica rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Downey | Santa Monica |
|---|---|---|
| State Law | Gov Code 65595 protects native plants | CA Gov Code §65595 |
| MWELO | Encourages low-water landscaping | - |
| Turf Replacement | Rebates often available | - |
| HOA | Cannot prohibit drought-tolerant plants | - |
| Encouraged | - | Drought-tolerant and native plants |
| Code | - | SMMC Ch. 9.26 |
| Rebates | - | Landscape rebates available |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Downey 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 Downey ordinances.
Are there rebates for replacing my lawn?
Downey or your water utility may offer rebates for lawn replacement with drought-tolerant landscaping. Contact your local water provider.
Santa Monica 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 Santa Monica ordinances.
Are there rebates for replacing my lawn?
Santa Monica or your water utility may offer rebates for lawn replacement with drought-tolerant landscaping. Contact your local water provider.
Compare other topics
See how Downey and Santa Monica compare on other ordinance categories.
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