California AB 2561 (2022) prohibits cities and HOAs from banning front-yard food gardens. San Bernardino County residents can grow vegetables and fruit in their front yards. The county also encourages drought-tolerant landscaping and has removed restrictions on replacing lawns with gardens.
California Assembly Bill 2561, effective 2023, prohibits local agencies and HOAs from banning the use of residential property for growing food. San Bernardino County residents in both incorporated cities and unincorporated areas can grow edible plants in their front yards. The county's Model Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance (based on AB 1881) encourages replacing water-intensive turf with drought-tolerant landscaping, which can include edible gardens. Raised beds, in-ground plots, and container gardens are all permitted. Gardens must be maintained to avoid creating nuisance conditions. Some HOAs may still regulate aesthetics (bed materials, height, maintenance) but cannot prohibit food production. The county's hot, arid climate makes water-efficient gardening methods particularly relevant.
No penalties for growing a front-yard garden. Unmaintained gardens may be cited under property maintenance codes. HOAs that ban food gardens may face legal challenges under AB 2561.
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See how San Bernardino County's front yard gardens rules stack up against other locations.
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