Native Plants: Fresno vs Selma
How do native plants rules compare between Fresno, CA and Selma, CA?
Selma has fewer restrictions than Fresno.
Fresno, CA
Fresno County
Fresno encourages native and drought-tolerant plantings under its Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance (WELO) adopted from state Model Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance. New landscaping over 500 square feet must meet water budget targets favoring native and low-water plants. HOAs cannot prohibit drought-tolerant landscaping under Civil Code §§4735 and 4739.
View full Fresno rules →Selma, CA
Fresno County
Selma does not mandate native plant landscaping for existing residential properties but follows California's Model Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance (MWELO) for new construction and major renovations. The MWELO encourages climate-appropriate and drought-tolerant plantings suited to the San Joaquin Valley.
View full Selma rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Fresno | Selma |
|---|---|---|
| - | - | |
| State Standard | - | MWELO (Title 23 CCR) |
| Threshold | - | New projects over 500 sq ft |
| Existing Homes | - | No native plant mandate |
| Climate Zone | - | San Joaquin Valley, hot-dry |
| Lawn Replacement | - | Permitted, no local ban |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Fresno FAQ
Do I need a permit to replace my Fresno lawn with natives?
For landscape conversion under 500 square feet, generally no. Over that threshold you must submit a Landscape Documentation Package under WELO showing compliance with water budget. Rebates may apply.
Can my HOA make me keep grass in Fresno?
No. Civil Code §4735 requires HOAs to allow drought-tolerant landscaping and AB 1572 actually phases out common-area non-functional turf. HOAs may regulate aesthetics but cannot require live turf during a drought.
Selma FAQ
Does Selma require native plants in my yard?
No. Existing residential properties have no mandate to use native plants. However, new construction and major landscape projects over 500 square feet must comply with state MWELO water-efficiency standards.
Can I replace my lawn with drought-tolerant landscaping in Selma?
Yes. There is no local prohibition on converting traditional lawns to xeriscaping or drought-tolerant plantings. Given the San Joaquin Valley's dry climate, such conversions are encouraged.
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