Native Plants: El Cerrito vs Martinez
How do native plants rules compare between El Cerrito, CA and Martinez, CA?
Martinez has fewer restrictions than El Cerrito.
El Cerrito, CA
Contra Costa County
New and rehabilitated landscapes over 500 sq ft in unincorporated Contra Costa must comply with the Model Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance (MWELO). Rebates for lawn-to-xeriscape conversions are available through EBMUD and CCWD, and HOAs cannot prohibit drought-tolerant landscaping under Civil Code 4735.
View full El Cerrito rules →Martinez, CA
Contra Costa County
California and Martinez encourage the use of native and drought-tolerant plants in landscaping. California Gov Code §65595 prohibits local governments from banning ornamental vegetation, including native plants. CCWD offers rebates for replacing water-intensive lawns with California native plants. Native plants generally require no irrigation once established and support local wildlife.
View full Martinez rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | El Cerrito | Martinez |
|---|---|---|
| MWELO threshold | 500 sq ft new/rehab landscape | - |
| Turf cap | Generally 25% of landscape area | - |
| HOA rule | Cannot ban drought-tolerant (Civ Code 4735) | - |
| EBMUD rebate | Up to $2/sq ft turf replacement | - |
| Greywater | Laundry-to-landscape permit-exempt | - |
| Encouraged | - | Native and drought-tolerant plants encouraged |
| Cannot Be Banned | - | CA Gov Code §65595 protects native plant use |
| CCWD Rebates | - | Available for turf replacement with natives |
| Benefits | - | No irrigation once established; wildlife habitat |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
El Cerrito FAQ
Do I need a permit to replace my lawn with drought-tolerant plants?
Typically no permit is required for residential landscape replacement under 500 sq ft, but if you are installing new irrigation or retaining walls, a permit may apply.
Can my HOA require a front lawn?
No. Civil Code 4735 prohibits HOAs from requiring turf or penalizing members for drought-tolerant landscaping.
Martinez 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 Martinez ordinances.
Are there rebates for replacing my lawn?
Martinez or your water utility may offer rebates for lawn replacement with drought-tolerant landscaping. Contact your local water provider.
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