Native Plants: Newport Beach vs Santa Ana
How do native plants rules compare between Newport Beach, CA and Santa Ana, CA?
Santa Ana has fewer restrictions than Newport Beach.
Newport Beach, CA
Orange County
Newport Beach encourages drought-tolerant and native plant landscaping through its Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance. New construction and major renovations with 500 square feet or more of landscaping must comply with water-efficient design standards that favor California native and climate-appropriate species.
View full Newport Beach rules →Santa Ana, CA
Orange County
Santa Ana encourages the use of native and drought-tolerant plants for landscaping in compliance with the California Model Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance (MWELO). New development and major landscape projects must meet water efficiency standards.
View full Santa Ana rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Newport Beach | Santa Ana |
|---|---|---|
| MWELO Threshold | 500+ sq ft of new landscaping | Landscapes over 500 sq ft (new/rehab) |
| Water Budget | Maximum Applied Water Allowance required | - |
| Turf Rebates | Available through water districts | - |
| Correction Period | 60 days from notice | - |
| Native Plants | - | Encouraged, not mandated for existing homes |
| HOA Restrictions | - | Cannot prohibit drought-tolerant plants |
| State Law | - | Gov. Code §65595; Civ. Code §4735 |
| Permit Required | - | No (for residential replacement) |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Newport Beach FAQ
Does Newport Beach require native plants in landscaping?
Native plants are not strictly required but are strongly encouraged. The Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance incentivizes native and drought-tolerant species by allowing more favorable water budget calculations for these plants.
Can I replace my lawn with native plants?
Yes. Newport Beach encourages turf conversion to water-efficient landscaping. Contact your water district about turf replacement rebates, which can offset the cost of installing native and drought-tolerant plantings.
Do I need a landscape plan for a home remodel?
If your project involves 500 square feet or more of new or rehabilitated landscaping, you must submit a water-efficient landscape plan with your building permit application for review by the Planning Division.
Santa Ana FAQ
Can I replace my lawn with native plants in Santa Ana?
Yes. No permit is required to replace a residential lawn with native or drought-tolerant plants. HOAs cannot prohibit this change under California Civil Code Section 4735.
Does Santa Ana require drought-tolerant landscaping?
New development and major landscape projects over 500 square feet must comply with MWELO water efficiency standards. Existing residential properties are encouraged but not required to use drought-tolerant plants.
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