Native Plants: San Jose vs Sunnyvale
How do native plants rules compare between San Jose, CA and Sunnyvale, CA?
San Jose and Sunnyvale 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 →Sunnyvale, CA
Santa Clara County
Sunnyvale encourages native and drought-tolerant landscaping and complies with the California Model Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance. No permit is required for native plantings in residential yards.
View full Sunnyvale rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | San Jose | Sunnyvale |
|---|---|---|
| MWELO threshold | 500 sq ft landscapes | - |
| Plant requirement | 75 percent low water | - |
| Rebate program | Valley Water per sq ft | - |
| Heritage oaks | Protected county-wide | - |
| HOA protection | Civil Code 4735 | - |
| Permit needed | - | No for residential native planting |
| MWELO applies | - | Over 500 square feet |
| Invasive species | - | Discouraged, may be treated as weeds |
| Protected natives | - | Coast live oak, bay |
| Rebates | - | Available through Valley Water |
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.
Sunnyvale FAQ
Can I replace my entire front lawn with native plants?
Yes, and you may qualify for a rebate through Valley Water if you convert at least 250 square feet of irrigated lawn.
Are any native plants restricted?
Heritage-size oaks and bay trees are protected from removal but otherwise native plantings are encouraged.
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