Rancho Cordova supports native and drought-tolerant landscaping through Model Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance (MWELO) compliance and local rebate programs. Native valley grassland and oak woodland species are encouraged. California Civil Code Section 4735 shields homeowners from HOA penalties for water-wise landscaping.
MWELO applies to new construction landscaping over 500 square feet installed by developers and 2,500 square feet for homeowner-installed projects, requiring a water budget calculation and drought-tolerant plant palette where feasible. Recommended Rancho Cordova native species include valley oak, blue oak, California buckeye, toyon, California fuchsia, deergrass, and native milkweeds. Golden State Water and Regional Water Authority partners offer cash-for-grass rebates that reward conversion to low-water landscapes. Civil Code 4735 prohibits HOAs from requiring live turf or punishing homeowners for converting lawns to low-water landscapes during drought. Invasive plant species listed by Cal-IPC such as pampas grass and giant reed should be avoided.
Noncompliance with MWELO can delay certificate of occupancy for new projects. HOA violations of Civil Code 4735 may be challenged in court or through the Bureau of Real Estate.
Rancho Cordova, CA
Vehicle noise in Rancho Cordova is regulated by California Vehicle Code Sections 27150 through 27160, which require functional mufflers and prohibit modified...
Rancho Cordova, CA
Amplified music audible beyond 50 feet from the source in residential areas violates Rancho Cordova Municipal Code Chapter 9.44. Special events require a per...
Rancho Cordova, CA
Rancho Cordova lies directly adjacent to Mather Airport, a former Air Force Base now operated by Sacramento County as a cargo and general aviation facility. ...
Rancho Cordova, CA
Under California Civil Code Section 841, the Good Neighbor Fence Act of 2013, boundary fences between adjoining residential properties are presumed to benefi...
Rancho Cordova, CA
Feeding wildlife such as coyotes, raccoons, deer, and feral cats is discouraged and may be prohibited as a public nuisance in Rancho Cordova. California Fish...
Rancho Cordova, CA
Rancho Cordova limits the number of dogs and cats per household, typically 4 dogs and 4 cats per residential parcel, under rules administered by Sacramento C...
Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Sacramento County.
See how other cities in Sacramento County handle native plants.
See how Rancho Cordova's native plants rules stack up against other locations.
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