Pittsburg, CA Landscaping Rules: Native Plants (2026)

Drought-tolerant and xeriscape landscaping are actively encouraged in Pittsburg consistent with CCWD conservation programs and state law. Civil Code 4735 prohibits HOAs from enforcing CC&R provisions that require or promote high-water-use landscaping or penalize owners who install low-water landscaping during state or local drought declarations. Civil Code 1940.10 similarly protects tenants from landlord retaliation for reducing watering or installing drought-friendly plants during declared drought. For new construction, redevelopment, and rehabilitated landscapes of 500 square feet or more, the Model Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance (MWELO) codified at Title 23 California Code of Regulations Division 2 Chapter 2.7 requires: a landscape documentation package, a water budget not exceeding the Maximum Applied Water Allowance (MAWA), weather-based irrigation controllers, drip or high-efficiency irrigation for non-turf areas, a minimum 3 inches of mulch on non-turf planting areas, no overhead spray on strips narrower than 10 feet, and restricted turf percentage. CCWD offers turf replacement rebates and landscape conversion programs for existing properties. Artificial turf is permitted subject to local design and drainage standards. Permeable hardscape is encouraged to reduce runoff and comply with stormwater LID requirements.