Native Plants: San Jose vs Santa Clara
How do native plants rules compare between San Jose, CA and Santa Clara, CA?
San Jose and Santa Clara have similar restriction levels.
San Jose, CA
Santa Clara County
Santa Clara County encourages California native plants with Valley Water rebates for turf conversions. MWELO requires 75 percent low-water plants in new landscapes, and heritage native oaks are protected countywide.
View full San Jose rules →Santa Clara, CA
Santa Clara County
Santa Clara encourages California native landscaping through MWELO compliance and Valley Water rebates. Native plants are allowed as lawn replacements citywide.
View full Santa Clara rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | San Jose | Santa Clara |
|---|---|---|
| MWELO threshold | 500 sq ft landscapes | - |
| Plant requirement | 75 percent low water | - |
| Rebate program | Valley Water per sq ft | Valley Water landscape rebate |
| Heritage oaks | Protected county-wide | - |
| HOA protection | Civil Code 4735 | Cannot ban drought-tolerant plants |
| Framework | - | MWELO + Civ Code 4735 |
| Approval | - | No special permit for residences |
| Design tools | - | Calscape and local nurseries |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
San Jose FAQ
Do I need to water native plants in summer?
Established natives need little to no summer water. Newly planted natives need occasional deep watering for the first 1-2 summers. Avoid summer irrigation under established oak driplines to prevent fatal root fungus.
Where can I get advice on native plant selection?
The California Native Plant Society Santa Clara Valley Chapter, UC Master Gardeners of Santa Clara County, and Valley Water partner nurseries offer plant lists, garden tours, and landscape design resources.
Santa Clara FAQ
Can I remove my front lawn entirely?
Yes. Replacing lawn with mulched native planting, drought-tolerant shrubs, or permeable hardscape is supported by state law and often rebated.
Does MWELO apply to small yards?
MWELO triggers on new or renovated landscapes above threshold sizes, typically 500 sq ft or 2,500 sq ft depending on permits. Small residential touch-ups are not regulated.
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