Chico, CA Water Use Rules: Turf Replacement Rebates (2026)
Key Facts
- Permit needed
- no, if conditions met
- Max excavation depth
- 12 inches
- USA North 811 call
- required before digging
- Non-tree plant height cap
- 2 feet at maturity
Summary
Chico waives its right-of-way encroachment permit for homeowners removing parkway turf to install water-efficient landscaping, if six listed conditions are met.
No encroachment permit shall be required in connection with the removal of turf or grass from a parkway in front of a residential structure for the purpose of installing water-efficient landscaping and/or irrigation systems, provided that all of the following conditions are met: 1. No excavation shall occur at a depth greater than 12 inches.
Full Breakdown
Chico Municipal Code § 14.08.070(E) exempts residential parkway turf or grass removal for water-efficient landscaping or irrigation from the normal encroachment permit. Conditions: excavation no deeper than 12 inches; the owner must call Underground Service Alert (USA North 811) and the city before digging, per Government Code § 4216; work must not obstruct streets, utilities, or street trees more than necessary; irrigated street trees can't be cut off from water; no replacement plant besides trees may exceed 2 feet at maturity or block sight lines; and the conversion must follow the City of Chico Residential Parkway Landscape Conversion Guidelines and Chapter 19.68 landscaping standards.
Violations & Fines
Removing parkway turf outside these six conditions forfeits the permit exemption, making the work an unpermitted encroachment under Chapter 14.08, enforced by the public works director with infraction fines under City Charter § 1505.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Chico require a permit to remove parkway grass for a water-wise yard?
Do I still have to call before I dig up my Chico parkway strip?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Chico
California rules heatmap·Compare Chico to another location·View the California water use rules overview
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