Key Facts Full Breakdown Violations FAQ Sources

Sonoma Landscaping Rules: Native Plants Rules (2026)

Some Restrictions

Source: California Water Code 10608.14 →

Recently verified

California state rule: Sonoma does not have a local ordinance for native plants. This topic is governed by California state law and applies uniformly across the state.

Key Facts

Statute: AB-1572 Water Code 10608.14
Full effect: By 2031
HOA protection

Summary

AB-1572 prohibits using potable water to irrigate non-functional turf at commercial, institutional, and HOA-common areas, accelerating native and low-water landscape conversions statewide.

Full Breakdown

Water Code sections 10608.14 and 10610-10610.4 phase in a ban on potable water irrigation of non-functional turf on commercial, industrial, institutional, and HOA-controlled common areas, taking full effect by 2031. The Model Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance (Gov Code 65591) sets statewide minimum efficiency for new landscapes and requires climate-appropriate plant palettes. Civil Code section 4735 prevents HOAs from forbidding low-water or California-native landscaping.

Violations & Fines

State Water Board may enforce against suppliers; HOA penalties for native plantings are unenforceable under Civil Code 4735.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can my HOA require a green lawn?

No. Civil Code 4735 voids HOA rules that prohibit low-water-using plants or require living turf during declared drought conditions.

Does this ban apply to single-family homes?

No. AB-1572 covers commercial, institutional, industrial, and HOA-common areas. Single-family front and back yards are not subject to the potable-turf ban.

How does Sonoma compare?

See how Sonoma's native plants rules stack up against other locations.

Compare to Another Location View California Overview

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