Los Angeles, CA Landscaping Rules: Native Plants (2026)
Key Facts
- Turf Rebate
- Up to $5/sq ft from LADWP
- State Law
- CA Gov Code 65595 protects native landscaping
- MWELO
- Applies to new landscapes over 500 sq ft
- Education
- LADWP LAOLA workshops available
Summary
Los Angeles actively encourages native plant landscaping through LADWP rebate programs. The turf replacement program offers up to $5 per square foot for converting lawns to California Friendly native landscapes. CA Government Code 65595 prohibits cities from banning drought-tolerant landscaping. MWELO applies to new landscapes over 500 sq ft requiring water-efficient design.
The Model Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance (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. ... Local agencies are required to report on implementation annually by January 31 of each year to DWR's Water Use Efficiency Branch using the WUEdata Portal.
Official source re-checked September 8, 2026: the cited page had not changed since it was quoted.
Full Breakdown
Los Angeles increasingly supports native plant landscaping and xeriscaping for water conservation and habitat restoration. Some jurisdictions offer rebates for lawn replacement with drought-tolerant plants. HOAs in many states can no longer prohibit xeriscaping or native plant gardens. Municipal water restrictions may effectively require low-water landscaping for new developments. Native plant lists are typically available from local cooperative extension offices. Invasive species removal may be required or incentivized.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can my HOA force me to keep a grass lawn?
Are there rebates for replacing my lawn?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Los Angeles
California rules heatmap·Compare Los Angeles to another location·View the California landscaping rules overview
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Native Plants in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Los Angeles County handle native plants.