Union City, CA Landscaping Rules: Native Plants (2026)

The estimated total water use of selected plants in the landscape area shall not exceed the maximum applied water allowance. Methods to achieve water efficiency shall include one or more of the following:

i. Protection and preservation of native species and natural vegetation;

ii. Selection of water-conserving plant, tree and turf species, especially local native plants;

iii. Selection of plants based on local climate suitability, disease and pest resistance;

iv. Selection of trees based on applicable local tree ordinances or tree shading guidelines, and size at maturity as appropriate for the planting area;

v. Selection of plants from local and regional landscape program plant lists; and

vi. Selection of plants from local Fuel Modification Plan Guidelines.

b. Each hydrozone shall have plant materials with similar water use, with the exception of hydrozones with plants of mixed water use, as specified in Section 18.112.080(A)(2)(e).

c. Plants shall be selected and planted appropriately based upon their adaptability to the climatic, geologic, and topographical conditions of the project site. Methods to achieve water efficiency shall include one or more of the following:

i. Use the Sunset Western Climate Zone System which takes into account temperature, humidity, elevation, terrain, latitude, and varying degrees of continental and marine influence on local climate;

ii.