Native Plants: Fremont vs Hayward
How do native plants rules compare between Fremont, CA and Hayward, CA?
Fremont and Hayward have similar restriction levels.
Fremont, CA
Alameda County
Fremont encourages California native and Bay-Friendly landscaping through rebates and simplified permits. Native oak preservation applies. ACWD Bay Save lawn conversion programs available.
View full Fremont rules →Hayward, CA
Alameda County
Hayward supports native and drought-tolerant landscaping. New projects must comply with the state Model Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance.
View full Hayward rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Fremont | Hayward |
|---|---|---|
| Rebate | About 2 dollars per sq ft | Up to 2 dollars/sq ft |
| Native Oaks | Protected at 10 in DBH | - |
| HOA Limits | Void under Civ Code 4735 | - |
| Permits | Not needed for simple swaps | - |
| Programs | ACWD Bay-Friendly | - |
| MWELO trigger | - | 500 sq ft or larger |
| Turf cap | - | Limited by MWELO |
| Good species | - | Ceanothus, toyon, oak |
| Irrigation | - | Smart controller required |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Fremont FAQ
What are good Fremont native plants?
Coast live oak, California buckeye, toyon, coffeeberry, California lilac, manzanita, sages, deer grass, California fescue, and yarrow thrive in Fremont hot-summer dry-winter climate. The East Bay CNPS chapter provides a full plant list.
Can my HOA require me to keep a lawn?
No. California Civil Code 4735 prohibits HOAs from banning low-water landscaping or penalizing members for dormant lawns during drought. HOAs can still require neat maintenance and reasonable design review.
Hayward FAQ
Does MWELO apply to my remodel?
Yes if the landscape area is 500 sq ft or more and requires a permit or is part of a new development.
Where can I learn about native plants?
East Bay CNPS chapter and EBMUD water-wise gardening classes are free to the public.
Compare other topics
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