Richmond, CA Landscaping Rules: Native Plants (2026)

California strongly protects homeowners' right to install drought-tolerant (xeriscape) landscapes. Civil Code 4735 voids any HOA restriction that prohibits low-water-use plants or artificial turf during a declared drought or in compliance with state water-conservation rules. Government Code 53087.7 (AB 1164, 2015) similarly limits local governments from banning drought-tolerant landscapes. The state's Model Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance (MWELO), implemented in Richmond through city adoption, requires new landscapes over 500 square feet (2,500 sq ft for homeowner-provided residential) to meet water-budget calculations using Maximum Applied Water Allowance (MAWA). Key MWELO elements include high-efficiency irrigation (drip preferred, no overhead spray on narrow strips), hydrozoning (grouping plants by water need), 3-inch minimum mulch depth over exposed soil, and a certified soil management plan. Turf is limited to functional recreational areas and is generally discouraged on slopes over 25%. Plants should draw from the CA Native Plant Society and Water Use Classification of Landscape Species (WUCOLS) low-water lists, featuring California natives like manzanita, ceanothus, sages, and Mediterranean-climate species. EBMUD's WaterSmart Landscape program offers rebates for converting water-thirsty lawns to drought-tolerant landscapes, with per-square-foot incentives (subject to annual funding). Artificial turf is permitted but some HOAs impose aesthetic standards on product quality. Richmond's Community Development Department reviews MWELO compliance as part of building permits for significant landscape installations.