Native Plants: Glendale vs Santa Monica
How do native plants rules compare between Glendale, CA and Santa Monica, CA?
Glendale has fewer restrictions than Santa Monica.
Glendale, CA
Los Angeles County
Glendale encourages native and drought-tolerant landscaping consistent with MWELO and its Indigenous Tree Ordinance. The city cannot prohibit drought-tolerant landscaping per CA Gov Code 65595.
View full Glendale 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 | Glendale | Santa Monica |
|---|---|---|
| State Law | CA Gov Code 65595 | CA Gov Code §65595 |
| MWELO | Compliance required for new landscapes | - |
| Indigenous Trees | Protected by GMC 12.44 | - |
| Water Rebates | Available through GWP | - |
| Encouraged | - | Drought-tolerant and native plants |
| Code | - | SMMC Ch. 9.26 |
| Rebates | - | Landscape rebates available |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Glendale 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 Glendale ordinances.
Are there rebates for replacing my lawn?
Glendale 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 Glendale and Santa Monica compare on other ordinance categories.
Want to add a third city?
Use our full comparison tool to compare up to three cities.
Open Comparison Tool