Camarillo encourages drought-tolerant and native plant landscaping through the California Model Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance (MWELO) requirements for new construction and the Camrosa Water District's turf replacement rebate programs. The city does not mandate native plant landscaping for existing homes but incentivizes water-wise conversion.
Under the California MWELO (Government Code Section 65591-65599), new construction and major landscape renovations in Camarillo exceeding 500 square feet must comply with water-efficient landscape standards. This includes maximum applied water allowance calculations, efficient irrigation systems with smart controllers, and plant selection emphasizing drought-tolerant species. The Camrosa Water District offers turf replacement rebate programs that pay per square foot of lawn converted to drought-tolerant landscaping, typically requiring approved plant lists featuring native and climate-appropriate species. Metropolitan Water District rebate programs may also apply. California native plants well-suited to Camarillo's climate include California sages, buckwheat, manzanita, ceanothus, and native grasses. Many Camarillo HOAs have embraced drought-tolerant landscaping and updated their architectural guidelines to allow front-yard conversions, though some older CC&Rs may still require traditional grass lawns. AB 1223 (California Civil Code 4735) limits HOA ability to fine homeowners for drought-compliant landscaping during declared drought emergencies.
No penalties for having traditional landscaping. MWELO violations on new construction enforced through the building permit process. HOAs that fine for drought-compliant landscaping during declared droughts may violate California Civil Code 4735. Contact Camrosa Water at (805) 482-4677 for rebates.
Camarillo, CA
Vehicles operating on public streets are exempt from CMC Chapter 10.34. CA Vehicle Code Β§27007 limits vehicle exhaust noise to 95 dBA. Modified exhausts and ...
Camarillo, CA
Camarillo restricts livestock to agricultural and rural-exclusive zones under CMC Title 19. Keeping horses, cattle, goats, sheep, and similar large animals i...
Camarillo, CA
Camarillo does not have a citywide ordinance restricting residential lawn ornaments, statuary, religious displays, or seasonal yard decorations. Restrictions...
Camarillo, CA
Camarillo does not regulate residential inflatable holiday displays by ordinance. Setup is subject only to general code provisions β electrical safety under ...
Camarillo, CA
Camarillo's municipal code does not set citywide hours or brightness limits for residential holiday light displays. Light displays must comply with CMC Chapt...
Camarillo, CA
Built-in outdoor kitchens in Camarillo require building, gas, electrical, and plumbing permits from Building & Safety under CMC Title 16 (which adopts the Ca...
Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Ventura County.
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