Native Plants: Simi Valley vs Thousand Oaks
How do native plants rules compare between Simi Valley, CA and Thousand Oaks, CA?
Simi Valley and Thousand Oaks have similar restriction levels.
Simi Valley, CA
Ventura County
Ventura County encourages native plant landscaping in unincorporated areas through its water-efficient landscape ordinance, consistent with the California Model Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance (MWELO). New development and major renovations must use water-efficient plants.
View full Simi Valley rules →Thousand Oaks, CA
Ventura County
Thousand Oaks encourages native plant landscaping through its water-efficient landscape ordinance and development review process. New development must comply with MWELO, and the city's extensive open space preserves serve as models for native landscaping.
View full Thousand Oaks rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Simi Valley | Thousand Oaks |
|---|---|---|
| MWELO Threshold | New landscapes over 500 sq ft | New landscapes over 500 sq ft |
| Existing Landscapes | No conversion required | No conversion required |
| Recommended Species | Coast live oak, toyon, manzanita, sages | - |
| Climate Zone | Mediterranean (WUCOLS Zone 3) | - |
| Resources | UC Cooperative Extension Ventura County | Community Development (805) 449-2100 |
| Local Species | - | Coast live oak, toyon, sages, buckwheat |
| Botanic Garden | - | Conejo Valley Botanic Garden |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Simi Valley FAQ
Am I required to plant native plants in unincorporated Ventura County?
Not for existing landscapes. New construction and significant landscape renovations over 500 square feet must comply with MWELO water efficiency standards, which encourage but do not mandate exclusively native plants.
What native plants grow well in Ventura County?
Coast live oak, valley oak, California sycamore, toyon, manzanita, California buckwheat, black sage, white sage, and California poppies are all well-suited to the region's Mediterranean climate.
Are there incentives for planting native species?
Some local water districts offer rebates for turf replacement with drought-tolerant landscaping including native plants. The UC Cooperative Extension Ventura County provides free guidance on native plant selection and establishment.
Thousand Oaks FAQ
Am I required to use native plants in Thousand Oaks?
Not for existing landscapes. New development and major landscape renovations over 500 square feet must comply with MWELO water efficiency standards, which encourage drought-tolerant and native species.
What native plants work well in the Conejo Valley?
Coast live oak, valley oak, California walnut, toyon, laurel sumac, lemonade berry, California buckwheat, white sage, and black sage are well-adapted to the local climate. Visit the Conejo Valley Botanic Garden for examples.
Does the city offer incentives for native landscaping?
The Calleguas Municipal Water District periodically offers turf replacement rebates that can fund native plant installations. The UC Cooperative Extension provides free guidance on native plant selection for the region.
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