Sacramento encourages California native plants through the Model Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance (MWELO) and SMUD turf-replacement rebates.
Sacramento adopted MWELO (California Code of Regulations Title 23 Division 2 Chapter 2.7) requiring water-efficient landscape design for new residential projects over 500 square feet and commercial over 2,500 square feet. Landscape plans must show Maximum Applied Water Allowance calculations favoring native and low-water species. The city encourages CA native plantings through River-Friendly Landscape Guidelines. SMUD and the Regional Water Authority run Cash for Grass rebates paying 1 to 3 dollars per square foot of turf converted to natives or drought-tolerant mixes.
Specific penalty amounts for this ordinance are not published in a publicly accessible fine schedule. Contact Sacramento code enforcement directly for current fines, enforcement procedures, and hearing options.
Sacramento, CA
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Sacramento, CA
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Sacramento, CA
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Sacramento County.
See how other cities in Sacramento County handle native plants.
See how Sacramento's native plants rules stack up against other locations.
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