Eastvale, CA Landscaping Rules: Native Plants (2026)

Eastvale's Zoning Code (EMC Sec. 120.05.040) is the main driver for plant selection on new or reviewed development. It states under landscaping plan requirements that 'trees that are native to the area, and/or suitable for the local climate as determined by the community development director, should be used' (Sec. 120.05.040(b)(1)), and that existing trees shall be preserved whenever practical (Sec. 120.05.040(b)(2)). Section 120.05.040(a)(4) requires that 'all landscaping shall comply with state water-efficient landscaping requirements' (California's Model Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance, MWELO), and the irrigation plan must include water-budget calculations based on the water-efficient landscape ordinance. JCSD, the water provider, supports native and drought-tolerant landscaping through a Certified Drought Tolerant Landscape Program, demonstration 'water-wise' gardens, and turf-replacement rebates that can cut outdoor water use by up to 60 percent when natural lawn is converted to a drought-tolerant landscape. For homeowners, native and low-water plants are not just allowed but encouraged. The limit is the EMC nuisance code: under EMC Sec. 8.18.030(a)(20), front and side yards must remain landscaped and maintained, and bare dirt, gravel, weeds or plastic sheeting alone are not acceptable ground cover, so a 'native' yard still needs intentional planting, mulch and upkeep.