San Ramon, CA Landscaping Rules: Native Plants (2026)

San Ramon adopts California's Model Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance (MWELO), codified in California Code of Regulations Title 23, Division 2, Chapter 2.7, which applies to new construction landscapes over 500 square feet requiring a permit, plan check, or design review, and rehabilitated landscapes over 2,500 square feet. MWELO requires calculation of a Maximum Applied Water Allowance (MAWA), limiting landscape water budget based on evapotranspiration adjustment factors (0.55 for residential, 0.45 for non-residential). Turf is limited as a percentage of landscape area, and high-efficiency irrigation (drip, micro-spray, or smart controllers) is required. Xeriscape and California native plantings are strongly encouraged and straightforwardly meet MWELO. California Civil Code Section 4735 prohibits HOAs from banning low-water-use plants, artificial turf (in some cases), or drought-tolerant landscaping — any HOA rule conflicting with this is void. EBMUD offers Lawn-to-Garden rebates (typically $2 per square foot of lawn converted to water-efficient landscape) and irrigation equipment rebates. DSRSD runs similar programs. StopWaste, the Alameda County Waste Management Authority, partners with Bay-Friendly Landscaping training available to San Ramon residents. Permits for landscape renovation under 500 sq ft typically are not required, making small conversions easy. Artificial turf is generally allowed in backyards; front yard use varies by HOA and should be confirmed.