Native Plants: Santa Monica vs South San Gabriel
How do native plants rules compare between Santa Monica, CA and South San Gabriel, CA?
South San Gabriel has fewer restrictions than Santa Monica.
Santa Monica, CA
Los Angeles County
Santa Monica encourages drought-tolerant and native plantings. The city's landscaping standards under SMMC Ch. 9.26 promote water-efficient landscapes. CA Gov Code §65595 prohibits cities from banning drought-tolerant landscaping.
View full Santa Monica rules →South San Gabriel, CA
Los Angeles County
Native and drought-tolerant landscaping is encouraged in unincorporated LA County per MWELO and state water conservation mandates. CA Gov Code 65595 prohibits banning native plant gardens. Coastal areas specifically require native species for erosion control landscaping.
View full South San Gabriel rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Santa Monica | South San Gabriel |
|---|---|---|
| Encouraged | Drought-tolerant and native plants | MWELO and AB 1881 |
| Code | SMMC Ch. 9.26 | - |
| State Law | CA Gov Code §65595 | - |
| Rebates | Landscape rebates available | - |
| Local Bans | - | Prohibited by state law |
| Coastal Areas | - | Native species required |
| Water District | - | May offer rebates |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Santa Monica FAQ
Can my HOA force me to keep a grass lawn?
Many states prohibit HOAs from banning xeriscaping or native plant gardens. Check your state laws and Santa Monica ordinances.
Are there rebates for replacing my lawn?
Santa Monica or your water utility may offer rebates for lawn replacement with drought-tolerant landscaping. Contact your local water provider.
South San Gabriel FAQ
Does LA County require native plants?
No. The county doesn't mandate native plants but encourages them through MWELO's reduced irrigation requirements. Native and drought-tolerant plants require less water, making it easier to meet water efficiency standards.
What is MWELO?
The Model Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance requires new landscaping projects over 500 sq ft to meet maximum applied water allowance standards. It applies to new construction, rehabilitated landscapes, and large new plantings.
Where can I get help with native plant landscaping?
Contact your local water district for free native plant guides and rebates. The Theodore Payne Foundation and the California Native Plant Society have LA-area chapters with resources. Many nurseries specializing in California natives operate in LA County.
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