Colorado Springs, CO Landscaping Rules: Native Plants (2026)
Key Facts
- Rebate Program
- 1 to 2 dollars per sq ft turf conversion
- HOA Law
- CRS 38-33.3-106.5 protects xeriscape
- Signature Natives
- Blue grama, buffalo grass, rabbitbrush
- Watering Rules
- 3 days per week typical
- Consultation
- CSU Water Wise free
Summary
Colorado Springs encourages native-plant landscaping through Colorado Springs Utilities Water Wise rebates, typically 1 to 2 dollars per square foot of turf converted to xeriscape with native species. HOAs cannot prohibit xeriscape under Colorado's HOA xeriscape law (CRS 38-33.3-106.5), which mandates HOA approval of water-efficient landscaping using drought-tolerant plants including native species.
Bill Summary: Under current law, a unit owners' association (association) of a common interest community may not prohibit the use of xeriscape, nonvegetative turf grass, or drought-tolerant vegetative landscapes to provide ground covering to property for which a unit owner is responsible. There is, however, an exception authorizing an association to adopt and enforce design or aesthetic guidelines or rules that apply to nonvegetative turf grass and drought-tolerant vegetative landscapes or to regulate the type, number, and placement of drought-tolerant plantings and hardscapes that may be installed on a unit owner's property, on a limited common element, or on other property for which the unit owner is responsible.
Full Breakdown
Native plants suited to Colorado Springs' 6,000-foot elevation and semi-arid climate include blue grama grass, buffalo grass, rabbitbrush, Apache plume, serviceberry, chokecherry, and columbine (state flower). Front Range native seed mixes are available through Colorado State University Extension and commercial suppliers. HOAs must allow native landscaping but may impose reasonable aesthetic standards. Rebates from Colorado Springs Utilities often include free landscape consultations through their Garden and Landscape Services. Seasonal watering restrictions (typically May through October, 3 days per week) make natives more practical than conventional turf.
Violations & Fines
No direct violations for native landscaping; this area is incentive-based. HOA attempts to prohibit natives can be challenged through the Colorado Division of Real Estate HOA complaint process.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can my Colorado Springs HOA force me to keep turf grass?
Does Colorado Springs pay me to replace grass with natives?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Colorado Springs
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