Native Plants: El Cerrito vs Richmond
How do native plants rules compare between El Cerrito, CA and Richmond, CA?
Richmond 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 →Richmond, CA
Contra Costa County
Xeriscaping is encouraged in Richmond. Under California Civil Code 4735 and Government Code 53087.7, HOAs and cities cannot prohibit drought-tolerant landscaping or artificial turf as a water conservation measure. EBMUD offers rebates for lawn conversions. New landscapes over 500 sq ft must comply with MWELO.
View full Richmond rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | El Cerrito | Richmond |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | - |
| - | - |
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.
Richmond FAQ
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