Fairfield, CA Landscaping Rules: Native Plants (2026)
Key Facts
- State framework
- California MWELO (23 CCR Section 490+)
- New-landscape threshold
- 500 sq ft permitted projects
- Rehab threshold
- 2,500 sq ft permitted projects
- Future non-functional turf ban
- AB 1572 (CII properties, phased)
- Incentives
- Turf-replacement rebates via Water Division
Summary
Fairfield encourages native and drought-tolerant plants and complies with California's Model Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance (MWELO) for new and renovated landscapes that meet the state thresholds. There is no city ban on lawns for existing residential properties.
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Full Breakdown
Fairfield does not prohibit traditional turf in existing residential yards, but the city actively promotes native and drought-tolerant species through its Water Conservation program. Recommended landscapes group plants in 'hydrozones' so similar water-use plants share an irrigation valve, reducing over- and under-watering. The city follows the California Model Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance (MWELO), adopted under Water Code Section 65595 and codified in 23 CCR Section 490 and following sections, which applies to new construction landscapes over 500 square feet that require a permit, plan check, or design review, and to rehabilitated landscapes over 2,500 square feet for permitted projects.
MWELO sets a Maximum Applied Water Allowance, requires soil amendments, smart irrigation controllers, dedicated landscape meters at larger sites, and mulch coverage. AB 1572 (effective in stages 2027-2031) layers on top by banning potable irrigation of non-functional turf at commercial, industrial, and institutional sites statewide. Cash-for-grass and turf-replacement rebates are periodically offered through the city's Water Division to encourage conversion to climate-appropriate landscapes.
Violations & Fines
MWELO non-compliance is handled through the project plan-check process - landscape plans that do not meet MWELO are not approved. Existing residential lawns face no penalty for being installed, but water-use must still respect the noon-to-6 p.m. ban and any drought-stage restrictions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Am I required to remove my lawn?
Do I have to follow MWELO for a small front-yard redesign?
Sources & Official References
- [1]https://water.ca.gov/Programs/Water-Use-And-Efficiency/Urban-Water-Use-Efficiency/Model-Water-Efficient-Landscape-Ordinance
- [2]https://www.fairfield.ca.gov/government/city-departments/public-works/water-division/water-conservation-draft/landscape
- [3]https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billNavClient.xhtml?bill_id=202320240AB1572
Other rules in Fairfield
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