Chico, CA Landscaping Rules: Native Plants (2026)
Key Facts
- Min. drought-tolerant/native share
- 90% of non-turf plants
- Max less drought-tolerant share
- 10%, grouped together
- Exemption
- Single-family homes
- Turf/water feature cap
- 25% of irrigated area
Summary
New commercial and multi-family landscaping in Chico must be at least 90% drought-tolerant or native plants suited to the local climate, per Chico Municipal Code Section 19.68.050.
Plant materials shall emphasize drought-tolerant and/or native species; a. At least 90 percent of the plants selected in non-turf areas shall be suited to Chico's climate and require minimal water once established. Exceptions to this requirement may be granted in situations where non-potable private well water is used for irrigation purposes; and b. Up to 10 percent of the plant materials may be of a less drought-tolerant variety as long as they are grouped together and can be irrigated separately.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Supplement contains local legislation current through: Codified Resolution No. 53-26, adopted 7-14-26 and Ordinance No. 2622, adopted 6-2-26).
Full Breakdown
Chico Municipal Code Section 19.68.050(B) requires landscape plans for non-residential and multi-family development to emphasize drought-tolerant and native species. At least 90 percent of the plants in non-turf areas must be suited to Chico's climate and need minimal water once established, with an exception where irrigation comes from a non-potable private well. Up to 10 percent of the planting can be less drought-tolerant, but those plants must be grouped together on a separate irrigation valve. The section sits within Chapter 19.68's broader Landscaping Standards, which also caps turf and water features at 25 percent of irrigated area or 500 square feet, whichever is greater. Single-family homes are exempt from the chapter.
Violations & Fines
Landscaping installed out of compliance with an approved plan can block issuance of a certificate of occupancy, and the planning director can require changes to bring plant selection back into the required 90/10 drought-tolerant mix.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does this apply to a single-family home's yard?
Can any non-drought-tolerant plants be used?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Chico
California rules heatmap·Compare Chico to another location·View the California landscaping rules overview
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