Reedley, CA Landscaping Rules: Native Plants (2026)

As required by California Government Code and Executive Order B-29-15, all California cities, including Reedley, must adopt and enforce the Model Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance (MWELO) or a local equivalent at least as effective. Under MWELO, new landscape projects of 500 square feet or more associated with new construction, and rehabilitated landscapes of 2,500 square feet or more, must submit landscape documentation packages demonstrating water budget compliance. MWELO requires a minimum of 10 percent California native plants (excluding edibles, functional turf, and areas irrigated with recycled water) in applicable landscape designs. Non-functional turf is prohibited in nonresidential landscape areas. Plant selections must be appropriate for the local climate zone, and Reedley falls within USDA Hardiness Zone 9b with hot, dry summers and mild winters. Native species suited to the San Joaquin Valley include valley oak, California buckeye, blue elderberry, California poppy, deer grass, and various manzanita species. The city does not restrict homeowners from voluntarily planting native species on existing properties.