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🌿 Landscaping Rules/Native Plants

Lakewood vs Santa Monica

How do native plants rules compare between Lakewood, CA and Santa Monica, CA?

Lakewood has fewer restrictions than Santa Monica.

Lakewood, CA

Los Angeles County

Few Restrictions

Lakewood may encourage or require native and drought-tolerant landscaping. Some areas restrict traditional grass lawns in favor of water-efficient alternatives.

View full Lakewood rules β†’

Santa Monica, CA

Los Angeles County

Some Restrictions

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 Β§65595 prohibits cities from banning drought-tolerant landscaping.

View full Santa Monica rules β†’

Key Facts Comparison

FactLakewoodSanta Monica
XeriscapingEncouraged or required-
HOACannot ban in many states-
RebatesMay be availableLandscape rebates available
Invasive SpeciesRemoval may be required-
Encouraged-Drought-tolerant and native plants
Code-SMMC Ch. 9.26
State Law-CA Gov Code Β§65595

Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.

Lakewood 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 Lakewood ordinances.

Are there rebates for replacing my lawn?

Lakewood 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.

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