Native Plants: Salt Lake City vs West Valley City
How do native plants rules compare between Salt Lake City, UT and West Valley City, UT?
Salt Lake City and West Valley City have similar restriction levels.
Salt Lake City, UT
Salt Lake County
Salt Lake City actively encourages native and water-wise plantings through the Flip Your Strip program and Chapter 21A.48 landscaping standards. Utah Code §10-9a-530 prohibits cities from banning xeriscape.
View full Salt Lake City rules →West Valley City, UT
Salt Lake County
Waterwise and native landscaping encouraged; Flip Your Strip rebates available through local water districts.
View full West Valley City rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Salt Lake City | West Valley City |
|---|---|---|
| Code Section | SLC 21A.48 Landscaping | - |
| Rebate | Flip Your Strip: $1.25/sq ft | - |
| State Preemption | Utah Code §10-9a-530 | - |
| Turf Phase-Out | HB 410 — new builds 2027 | - |
| Plant List | SLC-approved water-wise species | - |
| Fact | - | Native plants encouraged citywide |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Salt Lake City FAQ
Can my HOA force me to remove native plants?
No. Utah Code §10-9a-530 preempts bans on xeriscape. HOAs also cannot prohibit water-wise landscaping per state law.
Is there money available to convert my lawn?
Yes. SLC's Flip Your Strip program pays $1.25/sq ft for grass-to-waterwise conversions in park strips, up to $3,000.
West Valley City FAQ
Are HOAs required to allow waterwise yards?
Yes, Utah Code 57-8a-231 prohibits HOAs from banning waterwise landscaping but they can set design standards.
Where do I apply for rebates?
utahwatersavers.com through your water district.
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