Hayward, CA Landscaping Rules: Native Plants (2026)
Key Facts
- MWELO trigger
- 500 sq ft or larger
- Turf cap
- Limited by MWELO
- Rebate
- Up to 2 dollars/sq ft
- Good species
- Ceanothus, toyon, oak
- Irrigation
- Smart controller required
Summary
Hayward supports native and drought-tolerant landscaping. New projects must comply with the state Model Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance.
New development and retrofitted landscape water efficiency standards are governed by the Model Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance (MWELO) . The MWELO is also referenced by Title 24, Part 11, Chapters 4 and 5 CalGreen Building Code. All local agencies must adopt, implement, and enforce the MWELO or a local Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance (WELO) that is at least as effective as the MWELO. Usually, local agencies that adopt WELOs create a more stringent ordinance than MWELO. The purpose of water efficient landscape ordinances is to not only increase water efficiency but to improve environmental conditions in the built environment. Landscaping should be valued beyond the aesthetic because l
Official source re-checked September 8, 2026: the cited page had not changed since it was quoted.
Full Breakdown
Hayward strongly encourages California native and drought-tolerant landscaping to reduce outdoor water use, which accounts for roughly half of residential consumption in the East Bay. Native species such as California lilac (Ceanothus), toyon, coast live oak, manzanita, and California poppy thrive in Hayward's Mediterranean climate with minimal irrigation after establishment. New or substantially renovated landscapes over 500 square feet must comply with the California Model Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance (MWELO) adopted under Government Code 65591 et seq. MWELO caps turf area, requires high-efficiency irrigation with smart controllers, and mandates a Landscape Documentation Package for permit review. EBMUD offers the Lawn Conversion Rebate of up to 2 dollars per square foot of turf replaced with native or low-water plants, plus free classes at the Shadelands campus.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does MWELO apply to my remodel?
Where can I learn about native plants?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Hayward
California rules heatmap·Compare Hayward to another location·View the California landscaping rules overview
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Native Plants in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Alameda County handle native plants.