Native Plants: Ontario vs Rialto
How do native plants rules compare between Ontario, CA and Rialto, CA?
Rialto has fewer restrictions than Ontario.
Ontario, CA
San Bernardino County
Ontario enforces the state Model Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance (MWELO). New residential landscapes over 500 sq ft must meet water-budget, plant, and irrigation rules favoring natives and low-water species.
View full Ontario rules →Rialto, CA
San Bernardino County
California Government Code §53087.7 and Civil Code §1940.10 protect a homeowner's right to install drought-tolerant and California-native landscaping; no city or HOA may prohibit it. Rialto encourages native plants and MWELO compliance for new and rehabilitated landscapes ≥500 sq ft.
View full Rialto rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Ontario | Rialto |
|---|---|---|
| State rule | MWELO 23 CCR 490 et seq. | - |
| Residential threshold | Over 500 sq ft triggers review | - |
| Commercial threshold | Over 2,500 sq ft triggers review | - |
| AB 1572 | Ends turf at commercial sites 2027 | - |
| HOA override | Civil Code 4735 protects natives | - |
| Native Plants Protected | - | Gov. Code §53087.7 |
| HOA Bans Void | - | Civ. Code §4735 |
| MWELO Threshold | - | ≥500 sq ft (rehab) |
| Local Plants | - | Inland Empire CSS, oaks, sages |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Ontario FAQ
Does Ontario require me to use native plants?
The city does not mandate natives specifically, but MWELO water budgets practically favor natives, Mediterranean, and other low-water species in new landscape plans.
Can my HOA block me from replacing lawn with drought-tolerant plants?
No. California Civil Code 4735 bars HOA rules that prohibit low-water landscaping, though design review for appearance is allowed.
Rialto FAQ
Can my HOA require me to keep a green lawn in Rialto?
No. Civil Code §4735 voids any HOA rule that prohibits low-water plants or that fines members for brown lawns during a state-declared drought. The HOA can still require neat, well-maintained landscaping - just not turf specifically.
Will Rialto give me a rebate for replacing my lawn with natives?
Rialto residents are served by SoCalWater$mart and MWDSC turf-replacement rebates (commonly $2 to $5 per sq ft replaced) through metropolitan and West Valley Water District programs. Check rialtowater.com for current offers.
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