Landscapes that are designed, installed, managed and maintained with the watershed based approach can improve California's environmental conditions and provide benefits and realize sustainability goals. Such landscapes will make the urban environment resilient in the face of climatic extremes. The following water efficient landscape standards are designed to assist landscape architects, irrigation designers, contractors, planners and the public in the selection of plant materials and irrigation methods that result in more water efficient and water conscious landscaping throughout the city. The purpose of this chapter is to:
A. 
Promote high quality, water efficient landscaping, water use management and water conservation through the use of water efficient landscaping, wise use of turf areas and appropriate use of irrigation technology and management.
B. 
Create the conditions to support life in the soil by reducing compaction, incorporating organic matter that increases water retention, and promoting productive plant growth that leads to more carbon storage, oxygen production, shade, habitat and esthetic benefits.
C. 
Minimize energy use by reducing irrigation water requirements, reducing reliance on petroleum based fertilizers and pesticides, and planting climate appropriate shade trees in urban areas.
D. 
Conserve water by capturing and reusing rainwater and graywater wherever possible and selecting climate appropriate plants that need minimal supplemental water after establishment.
E. 
Protect air and water quality by reducing power equipment use and landfill disposal trips, selecting recycled and locally sourced materials, and using compost, mulch and efficient irrigation equipment to prevent erosion.
F. 
Protect existing habitat and creating new habitat by choosing local native plants, climate adapted non-invasive plants and avoiding invasive plants. Utilizing integrated pest management with least toxic methods as the first course of action.
G. 
Promote the values and benefits of landscape practices that integrate and go beyond the conservation and efficient use of water.
H. 
Provide for provisions for water management practices and water waste prevention.
I. 
Establish a structure for planning, designing, installing, maintaining, and managing water efficient landscapes in new construction and rehabilitated projects by encouraging the use of a watershed approach that requires cross-sector collaboration of industry, government and property owners to achieve the many benefits possible.
J. 
Reduce landscape water demands without sacrificing landscape quality or quantity.
K. 
Retain flexibility and encourage creativity through appropriate design.
L. 
Eliminate water waste from overspray and/or runoff.
M. 
Promote water conservation through public awareness.
N. 
Implement the requirements to meet the state of California Water Conservation in Landscaping Act 2006 and the California Code of Regulations Title 23, Division 2, Chapter 2.7, and Executive Order B-29-15.
(Ord. 08-07 § 4; Ord. 09-08 § 4; Ord. 15-11 § 2)
"Active recreational use"
means areas of active play or recreation such as sport fields, school yards, picnic grounds, or other areas of intense foot traffic that provide public benefit.
"Amendment"
means additions to the soil, such as compost, leaf mold, peat moss, or ground bark, which improves aeration and drainage of clay soils and helps hold water in sandy soils.
"Application rate"
means the depth of water applied to a given area in one hour, usually measured in inches per hour.
"Applied water"
means the portion of water supplied by the irrigation system to the landscape.
"Artificial turf" and/or "synthetic turf"
means a non-organic surface of synthetic fibers made to look like natural organic turf grass.
"Automatic irrigation controller"
means a timing device used to remotely control valves that operate an irrigation system. Automatic irrigation controllers are able to self-adjust and schedule irrigation events using either evapotranspiration (weather-based) or soil moisture data and utilize non-volatile memory.
"Backflow prevention device"
means a safety device used to prevent pollution or contamination of the water supply due to the reverse flow of water from the irrigation system.
"Bioretention area"
means a landscaped depression designed to collect and filter stormwater runoff before it infiltrates into the ground or is discharged via underdrains.
"Check valve" or "anti-drain valve"
means a valve located under a sprinkler head to hold water in the system to prevent drainage from sprinkler heads when the system is off.
"Compost"
means the safe and stable product of controlled biologic decomposition of organic materials that is beneficial to plant growth.
"Conversion factor (0.62)"
means the number that converts acre-inches per acre per year to gallons per square foot per year.
"Distribution uniformity"
means a measure of the uniformity of irrigation water applied over a defined area.
"Drip irrigation"
means any non-spray low volume irrigation system utilizing emission devices with a flow rate measured in gallons per hour. Low volume irrigation systems are specifically designed to apply small volumes of water slowly at or near the root zone of plants.
"Drip system operator indicator"
means a visual device that indicates the system is operating at recommended pressure and functioning within normal parameters.
"Ecological restoration project"
means a project where the site is intentionally altered to establish a defined, indigenous, historic ecosystem.
"Effective precipitation (Eppt)" or "usable rainfall"
means the portion of total precipitation which becomes available for plant growth.
"Emitter"
means drip irrigation emission device that delivers water slowly from the system to the soil.
"Established landscape"
means the point at which plants in the landscape have developed significant root growth into the site. Typically, most plants are established after one or two years of growth.
"Establishment period"
means, for purposes of this chapter, the first year after installing the plants in the landscape, or the first two years if irrigation will be terminated after establishment. The actual establishment period varies depending upon the plant species, the development of the plant's root system, soil conditions, and other environmental factors. Native habitat mitigation areas and trees may need three to five years for establishment.
"Estimated annual water use (EAWU)"
means the total amount of water estimated to be needed to keep the plants in the landscaped area healthy. It is based upon such factors as the local evapotranspiration rate, the size of the landscaped area, the types of plants, and the efficiency of the irrigation system, as calculated by the formula contained in Section 17.32.070.
"Estimated total water use (ETWU)"
means the total water used for the landscape as described in Section 13.32.070.
"ET adjustment factor (ETAF)"
means a factor of 0.55 for residential areas and 0.45 for nonresidential areas, that, when applied to reference evapotranspiration, adjusts for plant factors and irrigation efficiency, two major influences upon the amount of water that needs to be applied to the landscape. The ETAF for new and existing (non-rehabilitated) special landscape areas shall not exceed 1.0. The ETAF for existing non-rehabilitated landscapes is 0.8.
"Evapotranspiration (ET)"
means the quantity of water evaporated from adjacent soil and other surfaces, and transpired by plants during a specific time.
"Evapotranspiration rate"
means the quantity of water evaporated from adjacent solid and other surfaces and transpired by plants during a specific time.
"Flow rate"
means the rate at which water flows through pipe fittings, valves, and emission devices, measured in gallons per minute, gallons per hour, or cubic feet per second.
"Flow sensor"
means an inline device installed at the supply point of the irrigation system that produces a repeatable signal proportional to flow rate. Flow sensors must be connected to an automatic irrigation controller, or flow monitor capable of receiving flow signals and operating master valves.
"Friable"
means a soil condition that is easily crumbled or loosely compacted down to a minimum depth per planting material requirements, whereby the root structure of newly planted materials will be allowed to spread unimpeded.
"Fuel Modification Plan Guideline"
means guidelines from a local fire authority to assist residents and businesses that are developing land or building structures in a fire hazard severity zone.
"Graywater"
means untreated wastewater that has not been contaminated by any toilet discharge, has not been affected by infectious, contaminated, or unhealthy bodily wastes, and does not present a threat from contamination by unhealthful processing, manufacturing, or operating wastes. Graywater includes, but is not limited to, wastewater from bathtubs, showers, bathroom washbasins, clothes washing machines, and laundry tubs, but does not include wastewater from kitchen sinks or dishwashers, Health and Safety Code Section 17922.12.
"Hardscape"
means any durable surface material (pervious and nonpervious).
"Hydrozone"
means a portion of the landscape area having plants with similar water needs and rooting depths that are served by a valve or set of valves with the same irrigation schedule. A hydrozone may also be nonirrigated, for example, a naturalized area.
"Impervious surface"
means any surface that prevents or significantly reduces the natural soaking of water into the ground.
"Infiltration rate"
means the rate of water entry into the soil expressed as a depth of water per unit of time (e.g., inches per hour).
"Invasive species"
are non-indigenous species (e.g., plants or animals) that adversely affects the habitats they invade economically, environmentally, or ecologically. Lists of invasive species are included within the Western Riverside County Multi-Species Habitat Conservation Plan (incorporated by reference).
"Irrigation efficiency (IE)"
means the measurement of the amount of water beneficially used divided by the amount of water applied. Irrigation efficiency is derived from measurements and estimates of irrigation system characteristics and management practices. The irrigation efficiency for purposes of this chapter is 0.75 for overhead spray devices and 0.81 for drip systems.
"Landscape architect"
means a person who holds a license to practice landscape architecture in the state of California Business and Professional Code Section 5615.
"Landscape area (LA)"
means all the planting areas, turf areas, and water features in a landscape design plan subject to the maximum applied water allowance calculation. The landscape area does not include foot-prints of buildings or structures, sidewalks, driveways, parking lots, decks, patios, gravel or stone walks, other pervious or non-pervious hardscapes, and other non-irrigated areas designed for non-development (e.g., open spaces and existing native vegetation).
"Landscape coefficient"
means the functional equivalent of a crop coefficient in agriculture. When multiplied times ETo, it estimates the amount of water required to maintain landscape plants in good condition.
"Landscape irrigation audit"
means an in depth evaluation of the performance of an irrigation system conducted by a certified landscape irrigation auditor. An irrigation audit includes, but is not limited to: inspection, system tune-up, system test with distribution uniformity or emission uniformity, reporting overspray or runoff that causes overland flow, and preparation of an irrigation schedule. The audit must be conducted in a manner consistent with the Irrigation Association's Landscape Irrigation Auditor Certification Program or other U.S. Environmental Protection Agency "WaterSense" labeled auditing program.
"Land use entitlement"
means any legislative, discretionary or quasi-judicial review that requires city approval.
"Lateral line"
means the water delivery pipeline that supplies water to the emitters or sprinklers from the valve.
"Lawn" and/or "turf"
means a groundcover of cool- or warm-season grass that is mowed.
"Lawn substitute"
means any organic grass or low-growing groundcover that may or may not require mowing to retain a low-profile walkable surface. "Lawn substitutes" are limited to Dycondra Occidentalis (Western Ponyfoot), Dycondra Argentea (Silver Ponyfoot), Dymondia Margaretea (Silver Carpet), and Ophiopogon Japonicus 'Nana' (Dwarf Mondo Grass).
"Low volume irrigation"
means the application of irrigation water at low pressure through a system of tubing or lateral lines and low-volume emitters such as drip, drip lines, and bubblers. Low volume irrigation systems are specifically designed to apply small volumes of water slowly at or near the root zone of plants.
"Main line"
means the pressurized pipeline that delivers water from the water source to the valves or lateral lines.
"Master shut-off valve"
means an automatic valve installed at the irrigation supply point which controls water flow into the irrigation system. When this valve is closed, water will not be supplied to the irrigation system. A master valve will greatly reduce any water loss due to a leaky station valve.
"Maximum applied water allowance (MAWA)"
means the upper limit of annual applied water for the established landscaped area. It is based upon the area's reference evapotranspiration, the ET adjustment factor, and the size of the landscape area. The estimated total water use shall not exceed the maximum applied water allowance. Special landscape areas, including recreation areas, areas permanently and solely dedicated to edible plants such as orchards and vegetable gardens, and areas irrigated with recycled water are subject to the MAWA with an ETAF not to exceed 1.0. MAWA + (ETo) (0.62) [(ETAF x LA) + ((1-ETAF) x SLA)].
"Median"
means an area between opposing lanes of traffic that may be unplanted or planted with trees, shrubs, perennials, and ornamental grasses.
"Microclimate"
means the climate of a small, specific area that may contrast with the climate of the overall landscape area due to wind, sun exposure, plant density, or proximity to reflective surfaces.
"Moisture-sensing device"
means a device that measures the amount of moisture in the soil.
"Mulch"
means any organic material such as leaves, bark, straw or inorganic mineral materials such as rocks, gravel or decomposed granite left loose and applied to the soil surface to reduce evaporation and suppress weeds.
"Mulch stabilizer"
means a product or material that acts as a binding agent for various types of mulch, including wood chips and bark. It is designed to lock mulch in place to minimize the need for re-spreading and to prevent soil erosion.
"New construction"
means for the purposes of this chapter, a new building with a landscape, or other new landscape, such as a park, playground, or greenbelt without an associated building.
"Nonresidential landscape"
means landscapes in commercial, institutional, industrial and public settings that may have areas designated for recreation or public assembly. It also includes portions of common areas of common interest developments with designated recreational areas.
"Operating pressure"
means the pressure at which an irrigation system is designed by the manufacture to operate (static pressure minus pressure losses). This is usually indicated at the base or nozzle of a sprinkler.
"Overhead sprinkler irrigation system" or "overhead spray irrigation system"
means a system that delivers water through the air (e.g., spray heads and rotors).
"Overspray"
means when sprinklers deliver water beyond the landscaped area, wetting pavements, walks, structures, or other non-landscaped areas.
"Parkway"
means the area between a sidewalk and the curb or traffic lane. It may be planted or unplanted, and with or without pedestrian egress.
"Permeable surface"
means a surface that allows water to pass through and infiltrate into the ground instead of pooling of running off.
"Plant factor" or "plant water use factor"
means a factor that, when multiplied by ETo, estimates the amount of water needed by plants. For purposes of this chapter, the plant factor range for very low water use plants is 0 to 0.1, the plant factor range for low water use plants is 0.01 to 0.3, the plant factor for moderate water use plants is 0.4 to 0.6 and the plant factor for high water use plants is 0.7 to 1.0. Plant factors cited in this chapter are derived from the publication "Water Use Classification of Landscape Species". Plant factors may also be obtained from horticultural researchers from academic institutions or professional associations as approved by the California Department of Water Resources (DWR).
"Percolation"
means the movement of water through the soil.
"Potable water"
means water which is meant for human consumption.
"Pressure compensation bubbler"
means an irrigation emitter useful for watering trees and shrubs with water basins; produces a reduced flow of water that bubbles on the soil.
"Quick coupling system"
means a sprinkler system which uses permanently installed valves and sprinklers that can be moved from valve to valve.
"Rain sensor"
means a component of the irrigation system that automatically suspends the irrigation schedule when it rains.
"Reclaimed water," "recycled water," or "treated sewage effluent"
means treated or recycled water of a quality suitable for nonpotable uses such as landscape irrigation and water features, but not intended for human consumption.
"Recreation area"
means areas, excluding private single-family residential areas, designated for active play, recreation or public assembly in parks, sport fields, picnic grounds, amphitheaters, or golf courses tees, fairways, roughs, surrounds and greens.
"Reference evapotranspiration (ETo)"
means a standard measurement of environmental parameters which affect the water use of plants. ETo is expressed in inches per day, month, or year and is an estimate of the evapotranspiration of a large field of four- to seven-inch tall, cool season turf that is well watered. Reference evapotranspiration is used as the basis of determining the maximum allowable water allowance so that regional differences in climate can be accommodated. The annual ETo for Temecula is provided in the Reference Evapotranspiration (ETo) Table of Appendix C of the California Department of Water Resources' Model Water Efficiency Landscape Ordinance, as may be amended from time to time.
"Rehabilitated landscape"
means any re-landscaping project that requires a permit, plan check, or design review, meets the requirements of Section 17.32.030, and the rehabilitated landscape area is equal to or greater than two thousand five hundred square feet.
"Runoff"
means water which is not absorbed by the soil or landscape to which it is applied. Runoff occurs when water is applied at too great a rate or when there is a slope.
"Shall" or "will,"
for the purpose of this chapter, means that it is mandatory and must be included in the project's design.
"Should,"
for the purpose of this chapter, is intended to be applied as stated. However, an alternative measure may be included if it meets or exceeds the intent of the guideline(s).
"Soil moisture sensing device" or "soil moisture sensor"
means a device that measures the amount of water in the soil. The device may also suspend or initiate an irrigation event.
"Soil texture"
means the classification of soil based on its percentage of sand, silt and clay.
"Special landscaped area (SLA)"
means an area of the landscape dedicated solely to edible plants, recreation areas, areas irrigated with recycled water, or water features using recycled water.
"Sprinkler head" or "spray head"
means a device which discharges water through a nozzle.
"Static water pressure"
means the pipeline or municipal water supply pressure when water is not flowing.
"Station"
means an area served by one valve or set of valves that operate simultaneously.
"Submeter"
means a metering device to measure water applied to the landscape that is installed after the primary utility water meter.
"Temporarily irrigated"
means irrigation for the purposes of establishing plants, or irrigation which will not continue after plant establishment.
"Turf"
means a groundcover of cool- or warm-season grass that is mowed.
"Valve"
means a device used to control the flow of water in the irrigation system.
"Water feature"
means a design element where open water performs as aesthetic or recreational function. Water features include ponds, lakes, waterfalls, fountains, artificial streams, spas, and swimming pools. The surface area of water features is included in the high water use hydrozone of the landscape area. Constructed wetlands used for on-site wastewater treatment or stormwater best management practices that are not irrigated and used solely for water treatment or stormwater retention are not water features and therefore, are not subject to the water budget calculation.
"Water intensive landscaping"
means a landscape with a WUCOLS plant factor of 0.7 or greater.
"Water Use Classification of Landscape Species (WUCOLS)"
means the publication entitled "Water Use Classification of Landscape Species" published by the U.C. Cooperative Extension and the Department of Water Resources 2014.
(Ord. 08-07 § 4; Ord. 09-08 § 4; Ord. 15-11 § 2; Ord. 2025-15, 11/18/2025)
A. 
Except as provided in subsection B of this section, requirements of this chapter shall apply to:
1. 
New construction projects with an aggregate landscape area equal to or greater than five hundred square feet requiring a building landscape permit, plan check or design review.
2. 
Rehabilitated landscape projects with an aggregate landscape area equal to or greater than two thousand five hundred square feet requiring a building or landscape permit, plan check, or design review.
3. 
Existing landscapes limited to Sections 17.32.050 and 127.32.060.
4. 
Cemeteries: recognizing the special landscape needs of cemeteries, new and rehabilitated cemeteries are limited to Section 17.32.070. Existing cemeteries are limited to Section 17.32.150.
5. 
In the event covenants, conditions and restrictions are required by the city for any permit subject to this chapter, a condition shall be incorporated into any project approval prohibiting the use of water intensive landscaping and requiring the use of low water use landscaping pursuant to the provisions of this chapter in conjunction with common area/open space landscaping. Additionally, such a condition shall also require the covenants, conditions and restrictions to incorporate provisions concerning landscape irrigation system management and maintenance. This chapter shall not be construed as requiring landscaping on common areas or open space that is intended to remain natural. Covenants, conditions, and restrictions shall not prohibit the replacement of turf with less water intensive plant species.
6. 
For projects using treated or untreated graywater or rainwater captured on site, any lot or parcel within the project that has less than two thousand five hundred square feet of landscape area and meets the lot or parcel's landscape water requirement (estimated total water use) entirely with treated or untreated graywater or through stored rainwater captured on site is subject only to Appendix B in Section 17.32.200.
B. 
This chapter shall not apply to:
1. 
Registered federal, state, and/or local historical sites and/or structures;
2. 
Ecological restoration projects that do not require a permanent irrigation system; and
3. 
Existing plant collections as part of botanical gardens and arboretums open to the public.
(Ord. 08-07 § 4; Ord. 09-08 § 4; Ord. 15-11 § 2)
A. 
The submittal, review, revision and approval of all required landscape and irrigation plans shall be in compliance with already established city procedures for land use entitlements. The requirements of this chapter shall be submitted jointly along with the required applications, plans and fees required for land use entitlement as required by the director of community development and on file in the community development department.
B. 
The landscape plan package shall include: construction landscape plans, irrigation plans, agronomic soils report, water budget, irrigation schedule, and maintenance schedule.
C. 
An agronomic soil report is required on all projects for appropriate specifications of soil amendments, and to facilitate selection of water efficient plant species suitable for the site. A soil analysis shall be conducted for the site from reasonable soil samples of the site. The soil report shall describe the soil type, pH, soluble salts, infiltration rate, limiting soil characteristics, and recommended soil amendments needed to remediate limiting soil characteristics.
D. 
A construction cost estimate is required with all construction landscape plans.
E. 
A landscape maintenance schedule is required with all landscape plans as identified in Section 17.32.110.
F. 
Landscaping plans shall be prepared using the water budget formula described in Appendix A in Section 17.32.200. In addition, landscaping plans shall provide a water budget which includes estimated annual water use (in hundred cubic feet per year (ccf/yr)) and the area (in square feet) to be irrigated; and precipitation rates for each valve circuit. The director of community development or designee shall approve all landscaping plans.
G. 
Prior to the issuance of a building permit for a project, subject to this chapter, or as otherwise specified in the conditions of approval for a project, planting and irrigation plans prepared for the project shall be submitted for review and approval by the director of community development.
H. 
Prior to the issuance of a certificate of use and occupancy, an applicant shall submit a letter of completion, subject to field verification by the planning director or designee. Said letter of completion shall be prepared by the landscape architect and shall indicate that all plant materials and irrigation system components have been installed in accordance with the approved final landscape and irrigation plans. If a certificate of use and occupancy is not required for the project, such letter of completion shall be submitted prior to scheduling for the final inspection. The letter of completion shall be signed and certified by a licensed landscape architect and shall indicate:
1. 
Date.
2. 
Project information:
a. 
Project name.
b. 
Project applicant name, mailing address, telephone number.
c. 
Project address.
d. 
Property owner name and mailing address.
3. 
A field inspection of the irrigation system was completed prior to backfilling (evidence of field inspection shall be attached).
4. 
The landscaping has been installed in conformance with the approved planting and irrigation plans.
a. 
Where there have been significant changes made in the field during construction, "as-built" drawings shall be included with the certification.
b. 
A diagram of the irrigation plan showing hydrozones shall be kept with the irrigation controller for subsequent management purposes.
5. 
Irrigation audit report performed by a certified irrigation auditor after project installation (audit report shall be attached).
6. 
The irrigation controller has been set according to the irrigation schedule.
7. 
The irrigation system has been adjusted to maximize irrigation efficiency and eliminate overspray and runoff.
8. 
A copy of the irrigation and maintenance schedule has been given to the property owner, local water purveyor, and the director of community development.
I. 
All landscape irrigation audits shall comply with the most current publication of the "Irrigation Association Certified Landscape Irrigation Auditor Training Manual" and shall be conducted by a certified landscape irrigation auditor.
J. 
The director of community development or designee shall have the right to enter upon the project site at any time before, during and after installation of the landscaping to conduct inspections for the purposes of enforcing this chapter.
(Ord. 08-07 § 4; Ord. 09-08 § 4; Ord. 15-11 § 2)
A. 
Landscape plans and irrigation plans shall be drawn to the same scale.
B. 
All landscape plan approvals are subject to and dependent upon the applicant complying with all applicable city ordinances, codes, regulations and adopted policies.
C. 
Should any provision of this chapter conflict with any other provisions already established by the city, the more water efficient provision shall apply.
D. 
If the water purveyor for a proposed project has adopted more restrictive water efficient landscaping requirements, all landscaping and irrigation plans submitted shall comply with the water purveyor's requirements. Said plans shall be accompanied by a written document from the water purveyor delineating the more restrictive requirements.
E. 
Landscape design shall facilitate the implementation of landscape maintenance practices which foster long-term water conservation. Said practices may include, but not be limited to, scheduling irrigation based on established industry standards, conducting water audits and establishing a water budget to limit the amount of water applied per landscape acre.
F. 
Landscaping for fuel modification zones shall be subject to standards required by the city's fire department.
G. 
Landscaping adjacent to the Western Riverside County Multi-Species Habitat Conservation Plan (MSHCP) conservation areas shall avoid invasive species as listed in the MSHCP.
(Ord. 08-07 § 4; Ord. 09-08 § 4; Ord. 15-11 § 2)
For the efficient use of water, a landscape shall be carefully designed and planned for the intended function of the project. The design and installation of all proposed landscape improvements subject to this section shall comply with the following provisions:
A. 
All conceptual and construction landscape plans shall be prepared by a landscape architect licensed by the state of California.
B. 
All landscaping plans shall comply with the city of Temecula Citywide Design Guidelines.
C. 
All landscaped areas shall be irrigated with an automatic irrigation system as required in this chapter.
D. 
Water quality management plan best management practices (if applicable) that affect the landscaping shall be identified on the conceptual and construction landscape plans and in the construction landscape plan details.
E. 
Landscape design shall provide for the functional aspects of landscaping such as grading, drainage, minimal runoff, erosion prevention, wind barriers, provisions for shade and reduction of glare, and outdoor activities.
F. 
Permeable surfaces shall be used wherever permissible in place of impervious surfaces, to encourage on-site water infiltration and support water conservation measures.
G. 
A shallow swale shall be designed at the toe of all berms which are adjacent to sidewalks or other impervious surfaces to "catch" any runoff. This will help prevent weathering of pavement. If overhead spray irrigation is used for bermed areas, sprinkler heads shall be placed at the toe of the berm, so as to water from the bottom up.
H. 
If the area proposed for development is improved and is not scheduled for development within six months of the completion of the previous phase, it shall be temporarily landscaped and irrigated for dust and soil erosion control. Temporary landscape areas shall use the low water use hydrozone for the water budget calculation.
I. 
Enhanced hardscape features that include public art, sculpture and/or water features may be counted as part of the required landscaping as long as they are designed and integrated in a manner that accentuates the landscaping.
J. 
Permeable surfaces shall be used wherever permissible in place of impervious paving, to encourage on-site water infiltration and support water conservation measures.
K. 
Plant Material.
1. 
Plants identified on the landscape plan shall be selected from the approved plant list (Appendix C) in Section 17.32.200 or as specified on a Specific Plan Plant List if applicable.
2. 
Existing mature landscaping that is in good healthful condition shall be retained by incorporating such landscaping into the landscape plan.
3. 
The protection, preservation and enhancement of native species and natural areas are required where feasible.
4. 
Landscape design shall provide for the grouping of plants in regard to their water, soil, sun and shade requirements and in relationship to the buildings, so as to facilitate appropriate and efficient water applications.
5. 
Plant material with different watering needs shall not be placed on the same irrigation valve.
6. 
Turf shall be limited to only those areas designated for active recreational use.
7. 
Turf shall not be planted in areas that are less than ten feet in width in any direction.
8. 
Turf is not permitted on bermed areas or on slopes greater than twenty-five percent due to the problem of water runoff.
9. 
High water use plants, characterized by a plant factor of 0.7 to 1.0 are prohibited in street medians.
10. 
Artificial/synthetic turf is not a permitted substitute for plant material in commercial, industrial, or mixed-use zones and/or multifamily projects. Green artificial turf may be permitted in commercial, industrial, and/or mixed-use zones or multifamily projects when utilized for bona fide recreational facilities such as a sports field and may also be permitted in the inner courtyards of senior care facilities when used in place of a landscape area to provide a stable surface for mobility devices. Green artificial/synthetic turf is a permitted non-plant material for single-family homes when used in place of a lawn or other landscaped area of the home.
L. 
Protective tree grates shall be provided for trees planted in pedestrian areas.
M. 
Root barriers shall be placed where trees are planted within five feet of any hardscape element or building.
N. 
Soil Preparation, Mulch and Amendments.
1. 
Prior to the planning of any materials, compacted soils shall be transformed to a friable condition. On engineered slopes, only amended planting holes need to meet this requirement.
2. 
Soil amendments shall be incorporated according to recommendations of the soil report and what is appropriate for the plants selected.
3. 
For landscape installations, compost at a rate of a minimum of four cubic yards per one thousand square feet of permeable areas shall be incorporated to a depth of six inches into the soil. Soils with greater than six percent organic matter in the top six inches of soil are exempt from adding compost and tilling.
4. 
A minimum three-inch layer of organic mulching shall be installed and maintained over all non-turf areas. In areas with groundcover planted from flats, the mulch depth shall be no less than one and one-half inches. The mulching should be in the form of shredded bark, bark chips of varying sizes, or other similar materials. The size and type of mulch used should allow for moisture to pass through the surface, thus providing permeability and reduced erosion, particularly on slopes. Nonporous material shall not be placed under mulch.
5. 
Mulch stabilizer products shall be used on slopes when a binding agent is deemed necessary to hold the organic mulch in place. A stabilizing mulch product such as hydraulic mulch, jute mesh, and erosion control blankets shall be used only as a temporary erosion control.
6. 
Organic mulch materials made from recycled or post-consumer shall take precedence over inorganic materials or virgin forest products unless the recycled post-consumer product is not locally available. Organic mulches are not required where prohibited by fuel modification plans as determined by the city's fire department.
Inorganic mulch groundcover, such as gravel or crushed rock, should be used only as an accent material. No more than fifteen percent of the total landscape area should consist of such inorganic mulch groundcover, and, if used, the materials should be used in combination with live plants.
O. 
Decorative Water Features.
1. 
Recirculating water systems shall be used for water features.
2. 
Where available, recycled water shall be used for decorative water features.
3. 
The surface area of a water feature shall be included in the high water use hydrozone area of the water budget calculation.
P. 
The landscape plan, at a minimum, shall include:
1. 
Project address (if available, parcel and or lot number(s)).
2. 
Water supply type (e.g., potable or recycled).
3. 
Property lines, streets, and street names.
4. 
Building locations, driveways, sidewalks, retaining wall, and other pervious or non-pervious hardscape features.
5. 
Special landscape areas.
6. 
Identify areas irrigated with recycled water.
7. 
Identify type of mulch and application depth.
8. 
Identify soil amendments, type and quantity.
9. 
Identify type and surface area of water features.
10. 
Type and installation detail of any stormwater best management practices that encourage on-site retention and infiltration of stormwater.
11. 
A legend indicating all plant species by botanical name and common name, spacing, plant factor and quantities of each type of plant by container size.
12. 
Delineate and label each hydrozone, and identify each hydrozone as low, moderate, or high water use.
13. 
Identify area, in square feet devoted to landscaping and a breakdown of the total areas by landscape hydrozone.
14. 
Identify any applicable rain harvesting or catchment technologies.
15. 
Identify any graywater discharge piping, system components and area(s) of distribution.
Q. 
Parking Areas.
1. 
A minimum of a seven-foot-wide landscape planter shall be provided at the end of each parking aisle.
2. 
One landscape finger island shall be provided for every ten spaces. Landscape islands shall be a minimum of five feet in width to allow for tree growth and to avoid trunks from being hit.
3. 
The landscape planter shall contain a twelve-inch strip of concrete inside the six-inch curb of the planter, to create an eighteen-inch concrete strip for a person to step on when getting into or out of a vehicle. The concrete strip shall be attached to the six-inch curb. This step-out area shall not reduce the minimum inside dimension of the five-foot-wide landscape planter.
4. 
Raised planters, with a minimum interior dimension of five feet, should be used to separate double-loaded parking areas.
5. 
Finger islands adjacent to parking stalls on both sides shall have a minimum outside width of eight feet to accommodate step-outs while meeting the five-foot minimum inside planting area width requirement.
6. 
Canopy trees shall be used in parking areas to reduce the impact of large expanses of paving, to provide shade, and to reduce glare and heat build-up. These trees shall have a thirty-foot to forty-foot canopy potential and be sized at a minimum twenty-four-inch box at time of installation.
7. 
Provide root barriers when trees are planted five feet or closer to any hardscape element (including curbs, sidewalks, or any other paving (whether concrete or asphalt)) or building.
(Ord. 08-07 § 4; Ord. 09-08 § 4; Ord. 15-11 § 2; Ord. 22-01 § 17; Ord. 2025-15, 11/18/2025)
A project applicant shall complete the water efficient landscape worksheet in Appendix A in Section 17.32.200, which contains information on the plant factor, irrigation method, irrigation efficiency, and areas associated with each hydrozone. Calculations are then made to show that the evapotranspiration adjustment factor (ETAF) for the landscape project does not exceed a factor of 0.55 for residential areas and 0.45 for nonresidential areas, exclusive of special landscape areas. The ETAF for a landscape project is based on the plant factors and irrigation methods selected. The maximum applied water allowance is calculated based on the maximum ETAF allowed (0.55 for residential areas and 0.45 for nonresidential areas) and expressed as annual gallons required. The estimated total water use (ETWU) is calculated based on the plants used and irrigation method selected for the landscape design. ETWU must be below the MAWA.
A. 
In calculating the maximum applied water allowance and estimated total water use, a project applicant shall use the ETo value as specified on the water efficient landscape worksheet in Appendix A in Section 17.32.200.
B. 
Water budget calculations shall adhere to the following requirements:
1. 
The plant factor used shall be from WUCOLS or from horticultural researchers with academic institutions or professional associates as approved by the California Department of Water Resources (DWR). The plant factor ranges from 0 to 0.1 for very low water using plants, and from 0.7 to 1.0 for high water use plants.
2. 
All water features shall be included in the high water use hydrozone and temporarily irrigated areas shall be included in the low water use hydrozone.
3. 
All special landscape areas shall be identified and their water use calculated as shown in Appendix A in Section 17.32.200.
4. 
ETAF for new and existing (non-rehabilitated) special landscape areas shall not exceed 1.0.
(Ord. 15-11 § 2)
In order to reduce runoff and encourage healthy plant growth, a soil management report shall be completed by the project applicant, or designee, as follows:
A. 
Submit soil samples to a laboratory for analysis and recommendations.
B. 
Soil sampling shall be conducted in accordance with laboratory protocol, including protocols regarding adequate sampling depth for the intended plants.
C. 
The soil analysis shall include:
1. 
Soil texture.
2. 
Infiltration rate determined by laboratory test or soil texture infiltration rate table.
3. 
pH.
4. 
Total soluble salts.
5. 
Sodium.
6. 
Percent organic matter.
7. 
Recommendations.
D. 
In projects with multiple landscape installations (e.g., production homes) a soil sampling rate of one in seven lots or approximately fifteen percent will satisfy this requirement. Large landscape projects shall sample at a rate equivalent to one in seven lots.
(Ord. 15-11 § 2)
All irrigation systems shall be designed, constructed, managed, and maintained to achieve the highest overall efficiency possible. Efficiency is measured by the amount of water beneficially used to sustain plant life divided by the amount of water applied. Efficiency is affected by the attributes of the controller, method of irrigation, irrigation equipment, proper hydrozoning, site topography, condition and size of plants, and weather conditions.
The design and installation of all irrigation improvements shall be in compliance with the following provisions:
A. 
Landscape water meters, defined as either a dedicated water service meter or primate submeter shall be installed for all nonresidential irrigated landscapes of one thousand square feet or greater and residential irrigated landscapes of five thousand square feet or greater. A landscape water meter may be either:
1. 
A customer service meter dedicated to landscape use provided by the local water purveyor.
2. 
A privately owned meter or submeter.
B. 
The irrigation plan shall incorporate appropriate irrigation equipment, drip irrigation, bubbler, spray head, and/or rotor irrigation heads in order to provide the most efficient irrigation system.
C. 
A manual shut-off valve shall be required as close as possible to the point of connection of the water supply, to minimize water loss in case of an emergency or routine repair.
D. 
The irrigation plan shall be prepared at the same scale as the construction landscape plan and, at a minimum, shall identify the following:
1. 
Location and size of service lateral(s).
2. 
Location and size of water meter(s).
3. 
Point of connection (POC) location and static pressure at POC. Each point of connection shall indicate the size of the water meter, the static pressure available, and the maximum flow of the irrigation system.
4. 
Manufacturer's name, model number, total flow rate (gallons per minute), designed operating pressure (psi), and precipitation rate for each overhead spray and bubbler circuit, and total flow rate (gallons per hour) and design operating pressure (psi) for each drip and low volume irrigation circuit.
5. 
Location, size, and type of all irrigation components including, but not limited to: smart controller, central controller, master valve, flow sensor, backflow prevention device, ball valves, anti-drain check valves, pressure supply (main) line, lateral lines, pipe sizing, valves, spray heads, rotors, drip, low volume irrigation equipment, gallons per minute, pressure regulators, and pumps.
6. 
Hydraulic calculation worksheet including flow rate (gallons per minute), design operating pressure, and pressure loss for valve with "worse condition."
7. 
Precipitation rate (inches per hour) for each spray type circuit.
8. 
Irrigation legend to include all irrigation equipment used on the project.
9. 
Location and identification of each hydrozone.
10. 
A hydrozone information table for each hydrozone.
11. 
Topographic elevation lines to determine slope.
12. 
Proximity to existing or planned recycled/non-potable water lines.
13. 
Irrigation system details for assembly and installation.
14. 
Calculation for the project's landscape water budget formula (see Appendix A in Section 17.32.200).
E. 
Automatic irrigation controllers utilizing either evapotranspiration or soil moisture sensor data shall be required for irrigation scheduling in all irrigation systems.
F. 
If the water pressure is below or exceeds the recommended pressure of the specified irrigation devices, the installation of a pressure regulating device is required to ensure the dynamic pressure at each emission device is within the manufacturer's recommended pressure range for optimal performance.
G. 
If the static pressure is above or below the required dynamic pressure of the irrigation system, pressure-regulating devices such as inline pressure regulators, booster pumps, or other devices shall be installed to meet the required dynamic pressure of the irrigation system.
H. 
Static water pressure, dynamic or operating pressure and flow reading of the water supply shall be measured at the point of connection. These pressure and flow measurements shall be conducted at the design stage. If the measurements are not available at the design stage, the measurements shall be conducted at installation.
I. 
Sensors (rain, freeze, wind, etc.), either integral or auxiliary, that suspend or alter irrigation operation during unfavorable weather conditions shall be required on all irrigation systems, as appropriate for local climatic conditions. Rain sensors shall be placed within an unobstructed natural rainfall area and shall be located above the irrigation spray pattern.
J. 
Backflow prevention devices shall be required to protect the water supply from contamination by the irrigation system.
K. 
Flow sensors that detect high flow conditions created by system damage or malfunction are required for all nonresidential landscapes and residential landscapes of five thousand square feet or larger.
L. 
Master shut-off valves are required on all projects except landscapes that make use of technologies that allow for the individual control of sprinklers that are individually pressurized in a system equipped with low pressure shut down features.
M. 
All irrigation emission devices must meet the requirements set in the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) standard, American Society of Agricultural and Biological Engineer's/International Code Council's (ASABE/ICC) 802-2014 "Landscape Irrigation Sprinkler and Emitter Standards." All sprinkler heads installed in the landscape must document a distribution uniformity low quarter of 0.65 or higher using the protocol defined in ASABE/ICC 802-2014.
N. 
Residential front yard typical irrigation plans must demonstrate that sufficient capacity exists on the specified irrigation controller to supply adequate additional zones for future side and backyard landscaping. More than one controller per residential unit shall be avoided.
O. 
All nonresidential irrigation plans shall be designed for use of non-potable water in all areas scheduled for non-potable water in the future. Provisions for the conversion to a nonpotable water system shall be provided within the landscape plan should there be the possibility for future nonpotable water availability. Water systems designed to utilize nonpotable water shall be designed to meet all applicable standards of the city of Temecula, the California Regional Water Quality Control Board, State Department of Health Services, the Riverside County health department and the local reclaimed water purveyor.
P. 
Separate valves shall be provided for separate water use planting areas, so that plants with similar water needs are irrigated by the same irrigation valve. Drip irrigation techniques or similar high-efficiency irrigation type shall be provided where appropriate (i.e., shrubs, massing in-mulched areas) in instances where spray irrigation is not necessary.
Q. 
A separate valve shall be dedicated to trees with a minimum of two irrigation bubblers per tree.
R. 
Irrigation systems shall be zoned according to plant water use, slope aspect, and sun/shade microclimate. If low water use plants (that can also survive/flourish with medium water application) are used within a medium water use hydrozone, they must be counted as medium water use in the irrigation calculations. High water use plants may not be mixed with low water use plants within the same hydrozone.
S. 
The capacity of the irrigation systems shall not exceed:
1. 
The capacity required for peak water demand based on water budget calculations.
2. 
Meter capacity.
3. 
Backflow preventer type and device capacity.
T. 
The use of head check valves shall be included in irrigation systems where low point drainage could occur.
U. 
The use of swing/spring check valves shall be proved in lateral lines where elevation differences from the valve to highest head exceeds seven feet.
V. 
Low head drainage is not permitted.
W. 
Swing joints or other riser-protection components are required on all risers subject to damage that are adjacent to hardscape or in high traffic areas of turf grass.
X. 
Bermed areas should be irrigated with drip line irrigation. If overhead irrigation is necessary for bermed areas, then sprinkler heads shall be placed at the toe of the berm.
Y. 
Slopes greater than twenty-five percent shall not be irrigated with an irrigation system with an application rate exceeding 0.75 inches per hour.
Z. 
Overhead spray systems shall not be used in landscape areas narrower than ten feet in width with the exception of an engineered bioretention area approved by the director of public works.
AA. 
Overhead irrigation shall not be permitted within twenty-four inches of any non-permeable surface, unless the landscaped area is adjacent to a permeable surface and no overspray or run-off occurs.
BB. 
In mulched planting areas, the use of low volume irrigation is required to maximize water infiltration into the root zone.
CC. 
Rotors and spray heads shall be designed and installed with no overspray onto non-permeable surfaces, structures, and non-vegetated areas. Head-to-head coverage with matched precipitation heads shall be required, unless otherwise directed by the manufacturer. Rotors and spray heads shall be zoned separately. Half rotors and full rotors shall be zoned separately unless matched precipitation nozzles are used.
DD. 
Point-to-point drip systems shall utilize Schedule 40 PVC lateral lines. The lateral lines shall either be placed on-grade and secured with pipe anchors at a minimum ten feet on center for slopes greater than 3:1 or buried one foot below grade.
EE. 
High efficiency irrigation methods (e.g., drip, MP rotators, and microsprays) are required for appropriate applications.
FF. 
For drip line installations, in-line pressure regulators shall be used per factory recommendations for the specific irrigation products being used. If drip line is being installed, it must be filtered at the valve along with any other necessary equipment.
GG. 
Drip system operator indicators shall be included for each drip irrigation valve.
HH. 
The delivery tubing for point-to-point irrigation systems shall be no longer than three feet and attached to grade at minimum two-foot intervals.
II. 
Emitter line drip systems shall have the lines placed no more than eighteen inches apart. The emitter lines adjacent to curbs or walks shall be placed at a maximum of nine inches from the curb or walk. Emitter lines shall be attached to grade at a minimum of five feet on-center. All plants shall be planted between two emitter lines.
JJ. 
The finish grade for all on-grade drip systems shall be a minimum of three inches below adjacent curbs or walks.
KK. 
All drip systems shall utilize the mature canopy size of the plant in determining the number of emitters to be placed at each plant. A schedule showing the varying amount of emitters shall be placed on the plans. The run-times shall be shown in the irrigation schedules.
LL. 
The maximum square feet of any drip valve shall be two thousand five hundred square feet.
MM. 
All nonresidential drip systems shall have a brass/bronze line-sized basket strainer placed at the point of connection.
NN. 
Systems shall be scheduled so that the irrigation precipitation rate does not exceed the infiltration rate of the soil.
OO. 
A baseline irrigation schedule shall be provided on the plans for the six-month initial plant establishment period. The contractor shall adjust the schedule to meet site specific requirements and use the baseline schedule to set the weather based controller. The schedule currently in effect shall be posted in the controller.
PP. 
A second baseline irrigation schedule shall be provided on the plans which incorporate the specific water needs of the plants throughout the post-establishment calendar year. The contractor shall adjust the schedule to meet site specific requirements and use the baseline schedule to set the weather based controller. The schedule currently in effect shall be posted in the controller.
QQ. 
The irrigation schedules shall include the recommended irrigation days per week, number of cycles per day, minutes of run times per cycle, and estimated amount of applied irrigation water, expressed in gallons per month and gallons per year.
RR. 
The controller shall be operational and set to real-time weather prior to the completion of the ninety-day maintenance period of the installing contractor.
SS. 
After establishment of the plant materials, the irrigation of landscaped areas shall be limited to the hours between dusk and early morning in order to provide maximum benefit to the plant material and to reduce unnecessary water loss through wind drift and evaporation. Drip irrigation systems are exempt from this provision.
(Ord. 08-07 § 4; Ord. 09-08 § 4; Ord. 15-11 § 2; Ord. 2025-15, 11/18/2025)
A. 
A grading design plan may be required and shall include rough/precise grade elevations prepared for the project by a licensed civil engineer.
B. 
The grading of a project site shall be designed to minimize soil erosion, runoff, and water waste.
C. 
The grading plan shall include:
1. 
Height of graded slopes.
2. 
Drainage patterns.
3. 
Pad elevations.
4. 
Finished grade.
5. 
Stormwater retention improvements (if applicable).
D. 
To prevent excessive erosion and runoff, it is highly recommended that project applicants:
1. 
Grade so that all irrigation and normal rainfall remains within property lines and does not drain on to non-permeable hardscapes.
2. 
Avoid disruptions of natural drainage patterns and undisturbed soil.
3. 
Avoid soil compaction in landscape areas.
E. 
The grading design plan shall contain the following statement: "I have complied with the criteria of the ordinance and applied them accordingly for the efficient use of water in the grading design plan" and shall bear the signature of a licensed professional as authorized by law.
(Ord. 08-07 § 4; Ord. 09-08 § 4; Ord. 15-11 § 2)
A. 
Single-Family Residential Requirements.
1. 
Street trees shall be planted along all streets in residential areas. On any street, at least one street tree shall be provided at the front of each residential lot. In the street side yard, slope, and similar areas, at least one street tree per forty-five linear feet of street shall also be provided.
2. 
Front yard landscaping shall be provided in all residential zoning districts. In addition to the street tree requirement, front yard landscaping shall include, at a minimum, one fifteen-gallon size tree per lot, one five-gallon size tree per lot, and a variety of drought tolerant shrubs and ground-cover. Shrubs shall be a minimum five gallons at the time of planting. Turf areas shall be used sparingly in response to functional needs only and shall be in compliance with the water budget formula (Appendix A in Section 17.32.200).
3. 
Slope banks five feet or greater in vertical height with slopes between 5:1 and 2:1 shall, at a minimum, be irrigated and landscaped with a combination of appropriate shrubs, vegetative ground cover, and mulch that will absorb rainwater and reduce runoff for erosion control. If drip irrigation is used on slopes, a fertilizer injector system shall also be used.
a. 
Slope banks five feet or greater in vertical height with slopes greater than or equal to 3:1 shall, at a minimum, be landscaped to soften their appearance as follows:
i. 
One fifteen-gallon or larger tree per each six hundred square feet of slope area.
ii. 
One gallon or larger shrub for each one hundred square feet of slope area.
iii. 
Appropriate vegetative ground cover or mulch.
iv. 
In addition to the above requirements, slope banks in excess of eight feet in vertical height with slopes greater or equal to 2:1 shall also provide one five-gallon or larger tree per each one thousand square feet of slope area.
4. 
All trees and shrubs shall be planted in staggered clusters to soften and vary the slope plane.
5. 
Trees and shrubs shall be planted in a manner that at maturity they do not interfere with utility lines, sight lines for traffic safety, encroach on adjacent property, or create barriers to the solar access rights of adjoining property owners. Trees and shrubs shall be placed: (a) a minimum of five feet away from any water meter, gas meter, or sewer laterals; (b) a minimum of ten feet away from utility poles; and (c) a minimum of eight feet away from fire hydrants and fire department sprinkler and standpipe connections.
6. 
Residential front yard typical irrigation plans must demonstrate that sufficient capacity exists on the specified irrigation controller to supply adequate additional zones for future side and backyard landscaping. More than one controller per residential unit shall be avoided.
7. 
The project applicant shall provide home buyers with educational information regarding the design, installation and maintenance of water efficient landscape and irrigation landscapes as approved by the director of community development or water purveyor, upon the sale of each dwelling unit within the project. The plans shall include a key identifying the common names of the plants used in the landscaping.
B. 
Residential Model Homes Requirements.
1. 
All model homes in residential subdivisions shall comply with provisions of this chapter.
2. 
The project applicant shall distribute outdoor water conservation pamphlets provided by local water purveyors, if available, to buyers upon the sale of each dwelling unit within the development.
3. 
A sign shall be displayed in the front yard of each model home which is clearly visible to home buyers. The sign shall indicate that the model home features water efficient landscape, hydrozones, and irrigation equipment which contributes to overall water efficiency.
C. 
Multifamily Residential Requirements.
1. 
Parking areas shall comply with the standards as set forth by Chapter 17.24 of the Temecula Municipal Code.
2. 
All setback areas shall be landscaped, including interior courts, open space areas, and boundary areas that are not covered with buildings, pavement, or other hardscape surface.
3. 
Turf areas shall be used for functional needs only and shall be in compliance with the Water Budget Formula (Appendix A in Section 17.32.200).
(Ord. 08-07 § 4; Ord. 09-08 § 4; Ord. 15-11 § 2; Ord. 2025-15, 11/18/2025)
A. 
All development projects shall also comply with the city of Temecula Citywide Design Guidelines.
B. 
Street trees shall be planted at a minimum of one tree per thirty linear feet of street frontage. Trees shall be a minimum fifteen-gallon size at the time of planting. Shrubs shall be a minimum of five gallons at the time of planting.
C. 
Setback areas that are not used for vehicular and pedestrian access shall be landscaped. In addition, all interior courts, open space areas and boundary areas that are not covered with buildings, pavement, or other hardscape surface shall be landscaped.
D. 
Landscape designs shall consider such factors as the function of the landscape elements, consistency with the building and its architectural design, compatibility to the area, special design features, berming, use of hardscape or nonorganic materials, drought-tolerant plant materials for water conservation, and utilize planting (i.e., combination of shrubs, trees and climbing vines) to break up large building masses and perimeter walls and fencing.
E. 
The use or combination of berming, landscape materials, low level walls and structures, shall be used to screen parking areas, loading areas, trash enclosures, and utilities from public view.
Parking areas shall comply with the standards as set forth by Chapter 17.24 of the Temecula Municipal Code.
F. 
Slope banks five feet or greater in vertical height with slopes between 5:1 and 2:1 shall, at a minimum, be irrigated and landscaped with a combination of appropriate shrubs, vegetative ground cover, and mulch that will absorb rainwater and reduce runoff for erosion control. All trees and shrubs shall be planted in staggered clusters to soften and vary the slope plane. If drip irrigation is used on slopes, a fertilizer injector system shall also be used.
1. 
Slope banks five feet or greater in vertical height with slopes greater than or equal to 3:1 shall, at a minimum, be irrigated and landscaped with a combination of appropriate shrubs, vegetative ground cover, and/or mulch that will absorb rainwater and reduce runoff for erosion control, and to soften their appearance as follows:
a. 
One fifteen-gallon or larger tree per each six hundred square feet of slope area.
b. 
One gallon or larger shrub for each one hundred square feet of slope area.
c. 
Appropriate vegetative ground cover or mulch that will absorb rainwater and reduce runoff.
2. 
In addition to the requirements above, slope banks in excess of ten feet in vertical height with slopes greater or equal to 2:1 shall also provide one five-gallon or larger tree per each one thousand square feet of slope area.
G. 
Where trees are planted in pedestrian areas, a protective tree grate shall be provided.
H. 
Trees and shrubs shall be planted so that they do not interfere with utilities, light standards, sight lines for traffic safety, encroach on adjacent property, or obstruct to the solar access rights of adjoining property owners. Trees and shrubs shall be placed: (a) a minimum of five feet away from water meter, gas meter, or sewer laterals; (b) a minimum of ten feet away from utility poles; and (c) a minimum of eight feet away from fire hydrants and fire department sprinkler and standpipe connections.
(Ord. 08-07 § 4; Ord. 09-08 § 4; Ord. 15-11 § 2; Ord. 2025-15, 11/18/2025)
A. 
A minimum of eighty percent of the net lot area shall be open space and unencumbered with buildings. Open space may include walkways and recreation areas.
B. 
A minimum of fifty percent of the net lot area shall be covered with a drought-tolerant landscaping.
C. 
A minimum of one drought tolerant shade tree shall be provided for every one thousand square feet of net area.
D. 
Turf areas shall be used for functional needs only and shall be in compliance with the water budget formula (Appendix A in Section 17.32.200).
E. 
Any remaining areas which are not otherwise landscaped or surfaced for a specific recreational activity shall be covered with drought-resistant vegetation, or decorative hardscape.
F. 
Pervious hardscape shall be used where feasible.
G. 
Vehicular access ways shall be paved.
(Ord. 08-07 § 4; Ord. 09-08 § 4; Ord. 15-11 § 2)
A. 
All landscape irrigation audits shall be conducted by a local agency landscape irrigation auditor or a third party certified landscape irrigation auditor. Landscape audits shall not be conducted by the person who designed the landscape or installed the landscape.
B. 
In large projects or projects with multiple landscape installations (i.e., production home developments) an auditing rate of one in seven lots or approximately fifteen percent will satisfy this requirement.
C. 
For new construction and rehabilitated landscape projects installed after December 1, 2015:
1. 
The project applicant shall submit an irrigation audit report with the certificate of completion to the local agency that may include, but is not limited to: inspection, system tune-up, system test with distribution uniformity, reporting overspray or run off that causes overland flow, and preparation of an irrigation schedule, including configuring irrigation controllers with application rate, soil types, plant factors, slope, exposure and any other factors necessary for accurate programming.
2. 
The local agency shall administer programs that may include, but not be limited to, irrigation water use analysis, irrigation audits, and irrigation surveys for compliance with the maximum applied water allowance.
(Ord. 15-11 § 2)
A local agency may by mutual agreement, designate another agency such as a water purveyor, to implement some or all of the requirements contained in this chapter. Local agencies may collaborate with water purveyors to define each entity's specific responsibilities relating to this chapter.
(Ord. 15-11 § 2)
A. 
This section shall apply to all existing landscapes that were installed before December 1, 2015 and are over one acre in size.
1. 
For all landscapes in subsection A that have a water meter, the local agency shall administer programs that may include, but not be limited to, irrigation water use analyses, irrigation surveys, and irrigation audits to evaluate water use and provide recommendations as necessary to reduce landscape water use to a level that does not exceed the maximum applied water allowance for existing landscapes. The maximum applied water allowance for existing landscapes shall be calculated as: MAWA = (0.8) (ETo) (LA) (0.62).
2. 
For all landscapes in subsection A, that do not have a meter, the local agency shall administer programs that may include, but not be limited to, irrigation surveys and irrigation audits to evaluate water use and provide recommendations as necessary in order to prevent water waste.
B. 
All landscape irrigation audits shall be conducted by a certified landscape irrigation auditor.
(Ord. 15-11 § 2)
A. 
Landscapes shall be maintained to ensure water efficiency. Landscape maintenance shall include, but not be limited to, routine inspection, adjusting and repair of the irrigation system and its components, resetting irrigation controllers, aerating and dethatching turf areas, replenishing mulch, fertilizing, pruning, weeding, clearing of debris, monitoring for pests and disease, the removal and timely replacement of dead plants, and repair and timely replacement of integrated architectural features.
B. 
A ninety-day maintenance period is required of the installing contractor immediately following approval of the final landscape inspection.
C. 
An annual landscape maintenance schedule shall be prepared and provided to the property owner and director of community development. The maintenance schedule shall identify plant types (turf, shrubs, groundcover, trees, etc.), mulch and/or inorganic ground cover, and shall indicate the frequency of pruning and fertilizer applications by plant type and the replenishment of mulch.
D. 
Repair of irrigation equipment shall be done with originally specified materials or their equivalent.
E. 
The city will rely on water purveyors to enforce landscape water use efficiency requirements to existing landscape. The city shall coordinate with local water purveyors and identify programs that enhance and encourage landscape water use efficiency such as:
1. 
Tiered water rate structure.
2. 
Allocation-based conservation water pricing structure.
3. 
A rate structure at least as effective as the above options.
4. 
Irrigation audits and/or irrigation surveys.
5. 
Penalties for water waste.
F. 
New or rehabilitated landscape areas shall be subject to a landscape audit. The landscape audit shall include inspection of plant materials and irrigation systems in accordance with the state of California Landscape Water Management Program as described in the Landscape Irrigation Auditors Handbook, the entire document, which is hereby incorporated by reference.
G. 
Landscape audits will be coordinated with the water purveyor and shall be conducted by a certified landscape irrigation auditor.
H. 
All modifications to original landscape plan approvals shall require a modification application through the planning department, pursuant to Section 17.05.030.
I. 
Trees removed due to maintenance issues/death must be replaced in accordance with the approved landscape plans. If replacement is not possible due to size, species availability, site constraints, or other practical limitations, an alternative tree species or planting configuration may be proposed, subject to review and approval by the director of community development.
J. 
Protected trees must comply with Chapter 8.48 of the Temecula Municipal Code.
K. 
Groundcovers shall be used in addition to, not in place of, the approved landscaping and must be maintained accordingly. As groundcovers reach the end of their lifespan, groundcover replacements must meet the originally approved groundcover installation's specifications, including plant size, spacing, and watering requirements.
(Ord. 08-07 § 4; Ord. 09-08 § 4; Ord. 15-11 § 2; Ord. 2025-15, 11/18/2025)
A. 
The certificate of completion (see Appendix D in Section 17.32.200 for a sample certificate) shall include the following six elements:
1. 
Project information sheet that contains:
a. 
Date.
b. 
Project name.
c. 
Project applicant name, telephone, and mailing address.
d. 
Project address and location.
e. 
Property owner name, telephone, and mailing address.
2. 
Certification by either the signer of the landscape design plan, the signer of the irrigation design plan, or the licensed landscape contractor that the landscape project has been installed per the approved landscape documentation package.
a. 
Where there have been significant changes made in the field during construction, the "as-built" or record drawings shall be included with the certification.
b. 
A diagram of the irrigation plan showing hydrozones shall be kept with the irrigation controller for subsequent management purposes.
3. 
Irrigation scheduling parameters used to set the controller.
4. 
Landscape and irrigation maintenance schedule.
5. 
Irrigation audit report.
6. 
Soil analysis report, if not submitted with landscape documentation package, and documentation verifying implementation of soil report recommendations.
B. 
The project applicant shall:
1. 
Submit the signed certificate of completion to the director of community development or designee.
2. 
Ensure that copies of the approved certificate of completion are submitted to the local water purveyor and property owner or designee.
(Ord. 08-07 § 4; Ord. 09-08 § 4; Ord. 15-11 § 2)
A. 
Local agencies shall report on implementation and enforcement by December 31, 2015. Local agencies responsible for administering individual ordinances shall report on their updated ordinance, while those agencies developing a regional ordinance shall report in their existing ordinance. Subsequently, reporting for all agencies will be due by January 31st of each year. Reports shall be submitted to the DWR as follows.
B. 
Local agencies are to address the following:
1. 
State whether you are adopting a single agency ordinance or a regional agency alliance ordinance, and the date of adoption or anticipated date of adoption.
2. 
Define the reporting period. The first reporting period shall commence on December 1, 2015 and end on December 28, 2015. In subsequent years, all local agency reporting will be for the calendar year.
3. 
State if using a locally modified Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance (WELO) or the MWELO. If using a locally modified WELO, how is it different than MWELO, is it at least as efficient as MWELO, and are there any exemptions specified?
4. 
State the entity responsible for implementing the ordinance.
5. 
State number and types of projects subject to the ordinance during the specified reporting period.
6. 
State the total area (in square feet or acres) subject to the ordinance over the reporting period, if available.
7. 
Provide the number of new housing starts, new commercial projects, and landscape retrofits during the reporting period.
8. 
Describe the procedure for review of projects subject to the ordinance.
9. 
Describe actions taken to verify compliance. Is a plan check performed; if so, by what entity? Is a site inspection performed; if so, by what entity? Is a post-installation audit required; if so, by whom?
10. 
Describe enforcement measures.
11. 
Explain challenges to implementing and enforcing the ordinance.
12. 
Describe educational and other needs to properly apply the ordinance.
(Ord. 15-11 § 2)
All references in this chapter to Appendices A, B, C and D are to the codified appendices adopted by Ordinance No. 15-11.
Appendix B Prescriptive Compliance Option
A. 
This appendix contains prescriptive requirements which may be used as a compliance option to the requirements of Chapter 17.32.
B. 
Compliance with the following items is mandatory and must be documented on a landscape plan in order to use the prescriptive compliance option:
1. 
Submit a Landscape Documentation Package which includes the following elements:
a. 
Date.
b. 
Project applicant.
c. 
Project address (if available, parcel and/or lot number(s)).
d. 
Total landscape area (square feet), including a breakdown of turf and plant material.
e. 
Project type (e.g., new, rehabilitated, public, private, cemetery, homeowner-installed).
f. 
Water supply type (e.g., potable, recycled, well) and identify the local retail water purveyor if the applicant is not served by a private well.
g. 
Contact information for the project applicant and property owner.
h. 
Applicant signature and date with statement, "I agree to comply with the requirements of the prescriptive compliance option to the MWELO."
2. 
Incorporate compost at a rate of at least four cubic yards per 1,000 square feet to a depth of six inches into landscape area (unless contra-indicated by a soil test).
3. 
Plant material shall comply with all of the following.
a. 
For residential areas, install climate adapted plants that require occasional, little or no summer water (average WUCOLS plant factor 0.3) for 75% of the plant area excluding edibles and areas using recycled water; for non-residential areas, install climate adapted plants that require occasional, little or no summer water (average WUCOLS plant factor 0.3) for 100% of the plant area excluding edibles and areas using recycled water.
b. 
A minimum three inch (3″) layer of mulch shall be applied on all exposed soil surfaces of planting areas except in turf areas, creeping or rooting groundcovers, or direct seeding applications where mulch is contraindicated.
4. 
Turf shall comply with all of the following:
a. 
Turf shall not exceed 25% of the landscape area in residential areas, and there shall be no turf in non-residential areas.
b. 
Turf shall not be planted on sloped areas which exceed a slope of 1 foot vertical elevation change for every 4 feet of horizontal length.
5. 
Irrigation systems shall comply with the following:
a. 
Automatic irrigation controllers are required and must use evapotranspiration or soil moisture sensor data and utilize a rain sensor.
b. 
Irrigation controllers shall be of a type which does not lose programming data in the event the primary power source is interrupted.
c. 
Pressure regulators shall be installed on the irrigation system to ensure the dynamic pressure of the system is within the manufacturers recommended pressure range.
d. 
Manual shut-off valves (such as a gate valve, ball valve, or butterfly valve) shall be installed as close as possible to the point of connection of the water supply.
e. 
All irrigation emission devices must meet the requirements set in the ANSI standard, ASABE/ICC 802-2014. "Landscape Irrigation Sprinkler and Emitter Standard," All sprinkler heads installed in the landscape must document a distribution uniformity low quarter of 0.65 or higher using the protocol defined in ASABE/ICC 802-2014.
f. 
An area less than 10 feet in width in any direction shall be irrigated with subsurface irrigation or other means that produces no runoff or overspray.
g. 
Overhead irrigation is only allowed in landscape areas less than ten feet wide if it is an engineered bioretention area approved by the director of public works.
6. 
For non-residential projects with landscape areas of 1,000 sq. ft. or more, a private submeter(s) to measure landscape water use shall be installed.
C. 
At the time of final inspection, the permit applicant must provide the owner of the property with a certificate of completion, certificate of installation, irrigation schedule and a schedule of landscape and irrigation maintenance.
Appendix C
Plant List
Botanical Name
Common Name
Type
Kc
Kc
Height Feet
Spread Feet
Riv. Co. Native
Comments
Arctostaphylos
emerald carpet
GC
0.2
L
1
5
 
 
Acacia redolens
prostrate acacia
GC
0.2
L
2
12
 
 
Baccharis pilularais cvs.
dwarf coyote brush
GC
0.2
L
2
8
 
 
Baccharis 'Centennial'
bentennial baccharis
GC
0.2
L
2
5
 
 
Lantana montevidensis
lantana
GC
0.2
L
1
5
 
 
Maleophora crocea
ice plant (Maleophora)
GC
0.2
L
0.5
2
 
 
Myoporum parvifolium
myoprum
GC
0.2
L
0.5
8
 
 
Rosemarinus 'Prostratus'
trailing rosemary
GC
0.2
L
2
6
 
 
Teucrium chamaedrys
germander
GC
0.2
L
1
2
 
 
Abelia grandiflora prostrate
prostrate glossy abelia
GC
0.5
M
2
3
 
 
Arctotheca calendula
cape weed
GC
0.5
M
1
5
 
 
Berberis spp.
barberry
GC
0.5
M
1
6
 
 
Cerastium tomentosum
snow in summer
GC
0.5
M
0.5
3
 
 
Ceratostigma pumbaginoides
dwarf plumbago
GC
0.5
M
1
4
 
 
Cotoneaster spp. (ground covers)
coteneaster
GC
0.5
M
1
5
 
 
Fragaria chiloensis
wild strawberrry
GC
0.5
M
0.5
1
 
 
Gazania spp.
gasania
GC
0.5
M
0.5
2
 
 
Geranium incanum
cranesbill
GC
0.5
M
0.5
2
 
 
Hypericum calycinum
Aaron's beard
GC
0.5
M
1
3
 
 
Juniperus conferta
shore juniper
GC
0.5
M
1
6
 
 
Lirope spicata
creeping lily turf
GC
0.5
M
1
3
 
 
Lotus corniculatus
birdsfoot trefoil
GC
0.5
M
1
3
 
 
Mahonia repens
creeping mahonia
GC
0.5
M
2
3
 
 
Muehlenbeckia axillaries
creeping wire vine
GC
0.5
M
1
3
 
 
Myoporum X 'Pacificum'
pacifica saltbush
GC
0.5
M
2
15
 
 
Myoporum 'South Coast'
south coast myoprum
GC
0.5
M
2
10
 
 
Parthenocissus quinquefolia
Virginia creeper
GC
0.5
M
1
5
 
 
Pelargonium peltatum
ivy geranium
GC
0.5
M
2
4
 
 
Potentilia verna
spring cinquefoil
GC
0.5
M
1
3
 
 
Senecio mandraliscae
Kleinia
GC
0.5
M
1
3
 
 
Thymus pseudolanuginosus
wolly thyme
GC
0.5
M
1
1
 
 
Thymus serphylium
creeping thyme
GC
0.5
M
1
1
 
 
Trachelospermum asiaticum
Asian star jasmine
GC
0.5
M
1
3
 
 
Trifolium fragiferum O'Connor
O'Connor's legume
GC
0.5
M
1
6
 
 
Verbena rigida
vervian
GC
0.5
M
1
4
 
 
Zoyzia tenuifolia
Mascarene grass
GC
0.5
M
0.5
2
 
 
Ophiopogan japonicum
mondo grass
GC
0.8
H
1
1
 
 
Lotus scoparius
dear weed
P
0.1
VL
2
2
X
 
Nolina parryi
bear grass
P
0.1
VL
6
3
X
 
Achillea millifolium
common yarrow
P
0.2
L
3
3
 
 
Achillea tomentosa
woolly yarrow
P
0.2
L
0.5
3
 
 
Artemisia absinthium
wormwood
P
0.2
L
3
3
 
 
Baileya multiradiata
desert marigold
P
0.2
L
1
1.5
 
 
Coreopsis auriculata 'Nana'
dwarf coreopsis
P
0.2
L
0.5
2
 
 
Coreopsis lanceolata
coreopsis
P
0.2
L
1.5
1
 
 
Deschampsia caespitosa
tufted hairgrass
P
0.2
L
1.5
1
 
 
Dymondia margaretae
dymondia
P
0.2
L
0.5
2
 
 
Elymus ssp.
wild rye
P
0.2
L
2
2
 
 
Encelia califomica
Califomia encelia
P
0.2
L
4
4
X
 
Epilobium spp. (Zauchneria)
Califomia fuchsia
P
0.2
L
3
3
 
 
Kniphofia uvaria
red hot poker
P
0.2
L
2
3
 
 
Narcissus spp.
Daffodil
P
0.2
L
2
1
 
 
Pennisetum alopecuroides
Chinese pennisetum
P
0.2
L
3
3
 
 
Pennisetum setaceum 'Cupreum'
purple fountain grass
P
0.2
L
4
4
 
 
Stipa pulchra
feather grass
P
0.2
L
1.5
1.5
 
 
Stipa tenuissima
feather grass
P
0.2
L
1.5
1.5
 
 
Agapanthus africanus
lily-of-the-nile
P
0.5
M
1.5
1.5
 
 
Anigozanthos flavidus
kangaroo paw
P
0.5
M
2
2
 
 
Armeria maritime
sea pink
P
0.5
M
0.5
1
 
 
Asparagus spp.
Ornamental asparagus
P
0.5
M
1
3
 
 
Calamagrostis spp.
feather reed
P
0.5
M
2
2
 
 
Carex comans
sedge
P
0.5
M
1
3
 
 
Centaurea cineraria
dusty miller (cineraria)
P
0.5
M
2
2
 
 
Chrysanthemum superbum
Shasta daisy
P
0.5
M
2
2
 
 
Cuphea ignea
cigar plant
P
0.5
M
1
1
 
 
Delphinium elatum
candle larkspur
P
0.5
M
3
2
 
 
Dietes bicolor
fortnight lily
P
0.5
M
3
3
 
 
Dietes iridiodes
fortnight lily
P
0.5
M
3
3
 
 
Digitalis purpurea
Foxglove
P
0.5
M
4
2
 
 
Erigeron karvinskianus
fleabane
P
0.5
M
1.5
3
 
 
Erodium chamaedryoides
cranesbill
P
0.5
M
0.5
1
 
 
Erysimium linifolium
wallflower
P
0.5
M
2
2
 
 
Festuca califomica
Califomia fescue
P
0.5
M
0.5
1
 
 
Festuca ovina glauca
blue fescue
P
0.5
M
0.5
1
 
 
Gaura lindhelmer
gaura
P
0.5
M
3
3
 
 
Geranium sanguinium
cranesbill
P
0.5
M
1
2
 
 
Helictotrichon sempervirens
blue oat grass
P
0.5
M
2
2
 
 
Hermerocallis spp.
day lily
P
0.5
M
1
2
 
 
Heuchera sanguinea
coral bells
P
0.5
M
1
2
 
 
Imperata cylindrical 'Rubra'
Japanese blood grass
P
0.5
M
1
2
 
 
Iris spp.
Douglas iris hybrids
P
0.5
M
2
1
 
 
Lillium Asiatic
asian lily
P
0.5
M
2
1
 
 
Linaria purpurea
Toadflax
P
0.5
M
1.5
1
 
 
Lirope muscari
big blue lily turf
P
0.5
M
1
1.5
 
 
Miscanthus sinensis
eulalia grass
P
0.5
M
5
5
 
 
Muhlenbergia dumosa
bamboo muhly
P
0.5
M
3
3
 
 
Muhlenbergia rigens
deer grass
P
0.5
M
3
3
X
 
Nepeta X faassenii
catmint
P
0.5
M
2
2
 
 
Penstemon heterophyllus
penstemon
P
0.5
M
1
2
X
 
Stachys bysantina
Lamb's ears
P
0.5
M
1.5
1.5
 
 
Tulbaghia fragrans
Sweet garlic
P
0.5
M
1
1
 
 
Tulbaghia violacea
society garlic
P
0.5
M
1
1
 
 
Zantedeschia aethiopica
common calla
P
0.5
M
2
1
 
 
Bergenia crassifolia
winter blooming bergenia
P
0.8
H
2
2
 
 
Equisetum spp.
horsetail
P
0.8
H
4
2
 
Contain roots
Adenostoma fasciculatum
chamise
S
0.1
VL
10
10
X
 
Adenostoma sparsifolium
red shanks/ribbonwood
S
0.1
VL
10
10
X
 
Calliandra eriophyia
fairy duster
S
0.1
VL
3
4
 
 
Cercocarpus minutiflorus
San Diego mountain mahogany
S
0.1
VL
6
10
X
 
Fallugia paradoxa
Apache plume
S
0.1
VL
6
4
 
 
Lobelia laxiflora
Mexican bush lobelia
S
0.1
VL
2
2
 
 
Salvia apiana
white sage
S
0.1
VL
4
4
X
 
Simmondsia chinensis
jojoba
S
0.1
VL
6
6
X
 
Agave Americana
century plant
S
0.2
L
5
5
 
 
Arctostaphyios cultivars
manzanita cultivars
S
0.2
L
Varies
Varies
 
 
Arctostaphylos spp.
manzanita
S
0.2
L
Varies
Varies
X
 
Baccharis pilularis consan.
coyote brush
S
0.2
L
10
6
X
 
Baccharis sarothroides
desert broom
S
0.2
L
10
6
X
 
Buddleia marrubiifolia
woolly butterfly bush
S
0.2
L
5
5
 
 
Caesalpinea mexicana
Mexican bird of paradise
S
0.2
L
6
6
 
 
Callistemon citrinus
bottle brush
S
0.2
L
12
10
 
 
Convolvulus cneorum
bush morning glory
S
0.2
L
3
3
 
 
Senna artemisioides
feathery cassia
S
0.2
L
5
5
 
 
Senna eremophila
deset cassia
S
0.2
L
5
5
 
 
Ceanothus spp.
Califomia lilac
S
0.2
L
Varies
Varies
X
 
Ceanothus cultivars
ceanothus
S
0.2
L
Varies
Varies
 
 
Cereus peruvianus
penuvian apple cactus
S
0.2
L
25
6
 
 
Cistus spp.
rockrose
S
0.2
L
Varies
Varies
 
 
Comarostaphylis diversifolia
summer holly
S
0.2
L
10
10
X
 
Convolvulus cneorum
bush morning glory
S
0.2
L
3
3
 
 
Dalea bicolor
daleo (bicolor)
S
0.2
L
3
3
 
 
Dendromecon spp.
bush poppy
S
0.2
L
15
15
 
 
Echium fastuosum
pride of madeira
S
0.2
L
5
5
 
 
Elaeagnus pungens
silverberry
S
0.2
L
12
12
 
 
Encelia farinosa
brittle bush
S
0.2
L
5
5
X
 
Eriogonum spp.
buckwheat
S
0.2
L
3
4
X
 
Euphorbia rigida
euphorbia (rigida)
S
0.2
L
2
3
 
 
Euryops pectinatus
euryops/shrub daisy
S
0.2
L
5
3
 
 
Forestiera neomexicana
desert olive
S
0.2
L
6
6
 
 
Fouquieria splendens
ocotillo
S
0.2
L
15
5
X
 
Fremontodendron spp.
flannel bush
S
0.2
L
15
12
X
 
Galvesia speciosa
island bush snapdragon
S
0.2
L
2
4
X
 
Grevillea spp.
grevillea
S
0.2
L
4
4
 
 
Hesperaloe parviflora
red/yellow yucca
S
0.2
L
3
3
 
 
Heteromeles arbutifolia
toyon
S
0.2
L
8
8
 
 
Ilex vomitoria
yaupon
S
0.2
L
6
6
 
 
Keckiella antirhinnoides
yellow penstemmon
S
0.2
L
6
8
X
 
Keckiella cordifolia
heart-leaved penstemmon
S
0.2
L
5
8
X
 
Lantana carnara
Lantana
S
0.2
L
3
5
 
 
Larrea tridentate
creosote bush
S
0.2
L
4
4
 
 
Lavandula spp.
lavender
S
0.2
L
3
3
 
 
Lavatera bicolor
tree mallow
S
0.2
L
6
4
 
 
Leptospermum scoparium
New Zealand tea tree
S
0.2
L
6
6
 
 
Leucophylium frutescens
Texas ranger
S
0.2
L
6
6
 
 
Mahonia nevinii
Nevin mahonia
S
0.2
L
4
6
 
 
Malosma laurina (Rhus laurina)
laurel sumac
S
0.2
L
8
8
 
 
Rhamnus califomica
coffeeberry
S
0.2
L
10
10
X
 
Rhamnus crocea
redberry
S
0.2
L
3
5
X
 
Rhus ovata
sugar bush
S
0.2
L
8
8
X
 
Rosmarinus offfcinalis
rosemary
S
0.2
L
5
5
 
 
Ruellia brittoniana
mexican ruellia
S
0.2
L
3
2
 
Contain roots
Salvia chamaedroides
blue sage
S
0.2
L
1
4
X
 
Salvia clevelandii
Cleveland sage
S
0.2
L
4
4
 
 
Salvia gregii
autumn sage
S
0.2
L
4
4
 
 
Salvia leucantha
Mexican bush sage
S
0.2
L
4
4
 
 
Salvia leucophylla
purple sage
S
0.2
L
4
4
 
 
Santolina spp.
lavender cotton
S
0.2
L
2
2
 
 
Sollya heterophylla
Australian bluebell creeper
S
0.2
L
2
4
 
 
Teucrium fruticans
bush germander
S
0.2
L
5
5
 
 
Trichostema lanatum
woolly blue curls
S
0.2
L
4
6
X
 
Westringia fruticosa
coast rosemary
S
0.2
L
5
5
 
 
Yucca filamentosa
Adam's needle
S
0.2
L
2
5
 
 
Yucca whipplei.
our Lord's candle
S
0.2
L
3
3
X
 
Abelia 'Edward Goucher'
pink abelia
S
0.5
M
4
4
 
 
Abelia X grandiflora
glossy abelia
S
0.5
M
5
5
 
 
Abelia 'Sherwoodii'
Sherwood dwarf abelia
S
0.5
M
3
4
 
 
Aspidistra elatior
cast iron plant
S
0.5
M
2
2
 
 
Buddleia davidii
butterfly bush
S
0.5
M
6
6
 
 
Buxus microphylla japonica
Japanese boxwood
S
0.5
M
4
4
 
 
Caesalpinea pulcherrima
dwarf poinciana
S
0.5
M
10
10
 
 
Callistemon viminalis
weeping bottle brush
S
0.5
M
20
15
 
 
Chamelaucium uncinatum
Geraldton wax flower
S
0.5
M
6
6
 
 
Clivia miniata
Kafir Lily
S
0.5
M
2
2
 
 
Cocculus laurifolius
laurel leaf cocculus
S
0.5
M
25
25
 
 
Coprosma kirkii
creeping coprosma
S
0.5
M
2
3
 
Rabbit prone
Coprosma repens
mirror plant
S
0.5
M
10
6
 
 
Cordyline australis
cordyline
S
0.5
M
20
6
 
 
Cotoneaster spp. (shrubs)
cotoneaster
S
0.5
M
Varies
Varies
 
 
Cycas revolute
sago palm
S
0.5
M
4
4
 
 
Dodonaea viscose
hopseed bush
S
0.5
M
12
6
 
 
Dodonaea viscose 'Purpurea'
purple hopseed bush
S
0.5
M
12
6
 
 
Escallonia spp.
escallonia
S
0.5
M
Varies
Varies
 
 
Euonymus japonicas
evergreen euonymus
S
0.5
M
Varies
Varies
 
 
Euryops pectinatus viridis
green euryops
S
0.5
M
5
5
 
 
Feijoa sellowiana
pineapple guava
S
0.5
M
10
10
 
 
Felicia amelloides
blue marguerite
S
0.5
M
1.5
4
 
 
Felicia fruiticosa
shrub aster
S
0.5
M
2
3
 
 
Gardenia veitchii
gardenia
S
0.5
M
3
3
 
 
Garrya eliptica
coast silktassel
S
0.5
M
20
20
 
 
Grewia occidentalis
lavender star flower
S
0.5
M
6
6
 
 
Hebe spp.
hebe
S
0.5
M
3
3
 
 
Hibiscus syriacus
rose of Sharon
S
0.5
M
10
6
 
 
Hypericum 'Hidecote'
St.-John's-wort
S
0.5
M
4
4
 
 
Ilex X altaclarensis 'Wilsanili'
Wilson holly
S
0.5
M
8
8
 
 
Ilex aquifolium
English holly
S
0.5
M
20
20
 
 
Ilex comuta 'Burfordii'
Burford holly
S
0.5
M
10
10
 
 
Ilex dimorphophilia
Okinawan holly
S
0.5
M
3
3
 
 
Jasminum humile
Italian jasmine
S
0.5
M
10
10
 
 
Jassminum mesnyl
primrose jasmine
S
0.5
M
8
8
 
 
Juncos patens
California graybush
S
0.5
M
2
2
 
 
Juniperus spp.
juniper
S
0.5
M
Varies
Varies
 
 
Ligustrum japonicum
Japanese privet
S
0.5
M
10
10
 
 
Mahonia aquifolium
Oregon grape
S
0.5
M
6
6
 
 
Mahonia bealei
leatherleaf mahonia
S
0.5
M
8
8
 
 
Mahonia 'Golden Abundance'
golden abudance mahonia
S
0.5
M
6
4
 
 
Mahonia lomariifolia
Chinese holly grape
S
0.5
M
8
4
 
 
Murraya paniculata
orange jessamine
S
0.5
M
10
10
 
 
Myrtus communis
true myrtle
S
0.5
M
5
4
 
 
Nandina domestica
heavenly bamboo
S
0.5
M
5
3
 
 
Nandina domestica 'Purpurea'
heavenly bamboo
S
0.5
M
1.5
1
 
 
Osmanthus fragrans
sweet olive
S
0.5
M
10
10
 
 
Perovskia spp.
Russian sage
S
0.5
M
3
3
 
 
Phormium hybrids
flax
S
0.5
M
4
3
 
 
Phormium tenax
New Zealand flax
S
0.5
M
5
4
 
 
Photinia X fraseri
Fraser photinia
S
0.5
M
10
10
 
 
Photinia serrulata
Chinese photinia
S
0.5
M
10
10
 
 
Pittosporum tobira
mock orange
S
0.5
M
8
8
 
 
Pitt. Tobira "Wheelers Dwarf"
dwarf pittsporum
S
0.5
M
2
2
 
 
Plumbago auriculata
cape plumbago
S
0.5
M
6
8
 
 
Punica granatum "nana"
dwarf pomegranate
S
0.5
M
3
3
 
 
Pyracantha spp.
firethorn
S
0.5
M
Varies
Varies
 
 
Rhamnus alatemus
Italian buckthorn
S
0.5
M
12
12
 
 
Rhaphiolepis spp.
Indian hawthorne
S
0.5
M
4
4
 
 
Rhaphiolepis "Majestic Beauty"
majestic beauty
S
0.5
M
12
4
 
 
Rosa "Cecil Brunner"
Cecile Brunner rose
S
0.5
M
6
6
 
 
Rosa hybrids bush
rose
S
0.5
M
Varies
Varies
 
 
Spiraea japonica
spiraea
S
0.5
M
4
4
 
 
Tecomaria capensis
cape honeysuckle
S
0.5
M
6
8
 
 
Thymus vulgaris
common thyme
S
0.5
M
1
2
 
 
Trachelospermum jasminoldes
star jasmine
S
0.5
M
1.5
5
 
 
Veronica spp.
veronica
S
0.5
M
1.5
1.5
 
 
Viburnum japonicum
Japanese viburnum
S
0.5
M
10
10
 
 
Viburnum rhytidophyllum
leatherleaf viburnum
S
0.5
M
8
8
 
 
Viburnum suspensum
sadanqua viburnum
S
0.5
M
8
8
 
 
Viburnum tinus
laurstinus
S
0.5
M
8
8
 
 
Xylosma congestum
shiny xylosma
S
0.5
M
8
8
 
 
Prunus ilicifolia
holly leaf cherry
T
0.1
VL
40
25
X
 
Quercus dumosa
California scrub oak
T
0.1
VL
40
40
X
 
Querrcus wislizeni
interior live oak
T
0.1
VL
40
40
X
 
Acacia baileyana
Bailey acacia
T
0.2
L
25
30
 
 
Acacia cultriformis
knife acacia
T
0.2
L
12
12
 
 
Acacia dealbata
silver wattle
T
0.2
L
40
30
 
 
Acacia smallii
desert sweet acacia
T
0.2
L
30
20
 
 
Acacia stenophyla
shoestring acacia
T
0.2
L
30
20
 
 
Arbutus unedo
strawberry tree
T
0.2
L
20
20
 
 
Nolina recurvata
bottle palm
T
0.2
L
6
6
 
 
Brachychiton populneus
bottle tree
T
0.2
L
40
30
 
 
Brahea edulis
Guadelupe palm
T
0.2
L
30
10
 
 
Ceratonia siliqua
carob
T
0.2
L
30
30
 
 
Cercidium floridum
blue palo verde
T
0.2
L
30
30
X
 
Cercidium microphyllum
little leaf palo verde
T
0.2
L
25
25
X
 
Cercidium praecox
Sonoran Palo verde
T
0.2
L
25
25
 
 
Cercis occidentalis
western redbud
T
0.2
L
15
15
 
 
Chilopsis linearis
desert willow
T
0.2
L
25
25
 
 
Chitalpa tashkentensis
chitalpa
T
0.2
L
25
25
 
 
Cupressus arizonica var. glabra
smooth Arizona cypress
T
0.2
L
40
20
 
 
Cupressus sempervirens
Italian cypress
T
0.2
L
50
10
 
 
Elaeagnus angustifolia
Russian olive
T
0.2
L
20
20
 
 
Eucalyptus camaldulensis
red gum
T
0.2
L
70
40
 
 
Eucalyptus lehmannii
bushy yate
T
0.2
L
25
25
 
 
Gleditsia triacanthos
honey locust
T
0.2
L
50
30
 
 
Laurus nobilis
sweet bay
T
0.2
L
30
30
 
 
Leptospermum laevigatum
Australian tea tree
T
0.2
L
30
30
 
 
Olea europaea
olive
T
0.2
L
25
25
 
 
Parkinsonia aculeate
Mexican palo verde
T
0.2
L
20
20
X
 
Phoenix canariensis
Canary Island date palm
T
0.2
L
50
40
 
 
Phoenix dactylifera
date palm
T
0.2
L
60
40
 
 
Pinus brutia
Calabrian pine
T
0.2
L
40
40
 
 
Pinus eldarica
eldarica pine
T
0.2
L
40
40
 
 
Pinus halepansis
Aleppo pine
T
0.2
L
40
40
 
 
Pinus pinea
Italian stone pine
T
0.2
L
50
40
 
 
Pittosporum phillyraeoides
willow pittosporum
T
0.2
L
20
15
 
 
Prunus lyonii
Catalina cherry
T
0.2
L
40
30
X
 
Quercus agrifolia
coast live oak
T
0.2
L
40
50
X
 
Quercus chrysolepis
canyon live oak
T
0.2
L
30
40
X
 
Quercus ilex
holly oak
T
0.2
L
50
50
 
 
Quercus suber
cork oak
T
0.2
L
50
50
 
 
Rhus lancea
African sumac
T
0.2
L
25
25
 
 
Robinia X ambigua
locust
T
0.2
L
40
20
 
 
Schinus molle
California pepper tree
T
0.2
L
35
35
 
 
Sophora secundiflora
Texas mountain laurel
T
0.2
L
25
25
 
 
Washingtonia filifera
California fan palm
T
0.2
L
50
10
X
 
Washingtonia robusta`
Mexican fan palm
T
0.2
L
75
10
 
 
Acacia pendula
weeping acacia
T
0.5
M
25
15
 
 
Albizia julibrissin
silk tree
T
0.5
M
35
35
 
 
Alnus cordata
Italian alder
T
0.5
M
35
20
 
 
Arbutus 'Marina'
Marina arbutus
T
0.5
M
35
30
 
 
Arecastrum romanzoffianum
queen palm
T
0.5
M
40
10
 
Not zone 18
Banksia integrifolia
tree banksias
T
0.5
M
20
10
 
 
Bauhinia variegata
purple orchid tree
T
0.5
M
30
30
 
 
Brachychiton acerifollus
flame tree
T
0.5
M
50
30
 
 
Brachychiton discolor
Queensland lace bark
T
0.5
M
30
30
 
 
Cedrus atlantica
Atlas cedar
T
0.5
M
50
30
 
 
Cedrus deodora
deodar cedar
T
0.5
M
60
30
 
 
Celtis sinensis
Chinese hackberry
T
0.5
M
40
40
 
 
Cercis Canadensis
eastern redbud
T
0.5
M
30
30
 
 
Chamaerops humilis
Mediterranean fan palm
T
0.5
M
20
15
 
 
Chionanthus retusus
Chinese fringe tree
T
0.5
M
30
20
 
 
Cinnamomum camphora
camphor tree
T
0.5
M
40
40
 
 
Citrus spp.
orange, lemon, etc.
T
0.5
M
Varies
Varies
 
Not zone 18
Cupaniopsis anacardioides
carrotwood
T
0.5
M
40
40
 
 
Cypressocyparis leylandii
leyland cypress
T
0.5
M
20
10
 
 
Eucalyptus citriodora
lemon scented gum
T
0.5
M
60
30
 
 
Eucalyptus erythrocorys
red cap gum
T
0.5
M
20
10
 
 
Eucalyptus nicholii
peppermint gum
T
0.5
M
30
20
 
 
Eucalyptus torquata
coral gum
T
0.5
M
15
10
 
 
Fraxinus oxycarpa 'Raywoodi'
raywood ash
T
0.5
M
50
30
 
 
Fraxinus velutina
Arizona ash
T
0.5
M
50
30
 
 
Fraxinus velutina 'Modesto'
Modesto ash
T
0.5
M
50
30
 
 
Geijera parviflora
Australian willow
T
0.5
M
25
20
 
 
Ginkgo biloba
maiden hair tree
T
0.5
M
60
30
 
 
Junipenus scopulorum 'Tolleson'
Tolleson's juniper
T
0.5
M
20
10
 
 
Junipenus scopulorum
skyrocket juniper
T
0.5
M
20
3
 
 
Koelreuteria bipinnata
Chinese flame tree
T
0.5
M
30
30
 
 
Koelreuteria paniculata
golden rain tree
T
0.5
M
30
30
 
 
Lagerstorernia indica
crape myrtle
T
0.5
M
25
20
 
 
Ligustrum lucidum
glossy privet
T
0.5
M
35
30
 
 
Liquidamber styraciflua
sweet gum
T
0.5
M
50
20
 
 
Liriodendron tulipifera
tulip tree
T
0.5
M
50
30
 
 
Magnolia grandiflora
southern magnolia
T
0.5
M
60
30
 
 
Magnolia soulangeana
saucer magnolia
T
0.5
M
20
20
 
 
Magnolia stellata
star magnolia
T
0.5
M
10
20
 
 
Malus spp. eg. 'Prairie Fire'
crabapple
T
0.5
M
20
20
 
 
Maytenus boaria
mayten tree
T
0.5
M
30
20
 
 
Melaleuca styphelioides
melaleuca
T
0.5
M
30
20
 
 
Pinus canariensis
Canary Island pine
T
0.5
M
60
20
 
 
Pinus torreyana
Torrey pine
T
0.5
M
40
30
 
 
Pistacia chinensis
Chinese pistache
T
0.5
M
40
40
 
 
Platanus X acerifolia
London plane
T
0.5
M
50
30
 
 
Platanus racemosa
California sycamore
T
0.5
M
60
40
X
 
Podocarpus gracilior
fern pine
T
0.5
M
40
40
 
 
Podocarpus henkelii
long leaf yellow wood
T
0.5
M
40
20
 
 
Podocarpus macrophyllus
yew pine
T
0.5
M
40
40
 
 
Populus fremontii
western poplar
T
0.5
M
50
40
X
 
Populus nigra "Italica"
Lombardy poplar
T
0.5
M
50
15
 
 
Prunus caroliniana
Carolina laurel cherry
T
0.5
M
35
20
 
 
Prunus spp. (ornamental)
flowering cherry
T
0.5
M
25
25
 
 
Prunus spp. (ornamental)
flowering plum
T
0.5
M
25
25
 
 
Punica granatum
pomegranate
T
0.5
M
20
20
 
 
pyrus calleryana cultivars
Callery pear
T
0.5
M
40
20
 
 
Pyrus kawakamii
evergreen pear
T
0.5
M
40
40
 
 
Quercus lobata
valley oak
T
0.5
M
60
50
X
 
Quercus virginiana
southern live oak
T
0.5
M
50
50
 
 
Sapium sebiferum
Chinese tallow tree
T
0.5
M
35
35
 
 
Tipuana tipu
tipu tree
T
0.5
M
30
30
 
 
Trachycarpus fortunei
windmill palm
T
0.5
M
30
10
 
 
Tristaniopsis laurina
little leaf myrtle
T
0.5
M
15
8
 
 
Ulmus parvifolla
Chinese evergreen elm
T
0.5
M
40
40
 
 
Vitex agnus-castus
chaste tree
T
0.5
M
20
20
 
 
Alnus rhombifolia
white alder
T
0.8
H
40
20
 
Surface roots
Betula pendula
European white birch
T
0.8
H
30
15
 
 
Salix spp.
willow
T
0.8
H
20
20
 
Invasive roots
Clematis lasiantha
pipestem clemaltis
V
0.2
L
1
10
 
 
Lonicera japonica
Japanese honeysuckle
V
0.2
L
1
10
 
 
Lonicera japonica "Halliana"
Hali's honeysuckle
V
0.2
L
1
10
 
 
Macfadyena unguis-cati
cat's claw
V
0.2
L
1
10
 
 
Vitis californica
California wild grape
V
0.2
L
1
10
X
 
Ficus pumila
creeping fig
V
0.5
M
6
6
 
 
Clematis armandii
evergreen clemeitis
V
0.5
M
15
5
 
 
Clytostoma callistigioides
violet trumpet vine
V
0.5
M
15
5
 
 
Distictis buccinatoria
blood red trumpet vine
V
0.5
M
20
5
 
 
Disticis "Rivers"
royal trumpet vine
V
0.5
M
20
5
 
 
Lonicera sempervirens
trumpet honeysuckle
V
0.5
M
20
5
 
 
Parthenocissus tricuspidata
Boston ivy
V
0.5
M
15
15
 
 
Rosa banksiae
lady Banks rose
V
0.5
M
15
15
 
 
Rosa hybrids..climbing
climbing rose
V
0.5
M
10
15
 
 
Solandra maxima
cup of gold vine
V
0.5
M
10
10
 
 
Solanum jasminoides
potato vine
V
0.5
M
10
10
 
 
Wisteria spp.
wisteria
V
0.5
M
20
20
 
 
Clematis hybrids
deciduous clematis
V
0.8
H
15
5
 
 
LEGEND
Kc, Crop Coefficient Established by WUCOLS*
GC, Ground cover
Kc 0.1, Very Low water use
P, Perennial
Kc 0.2, Low water use
S, Shrub
Kc 0.5, Medium water use
T, Tree
Kc 0.8, High water use, (Not recommended)
V, Vine
 
C, Cool Season Grass
*California Department of Water Resources
W, Warm Season Grass
WUCOLS III, August, 2000.
Mowable Turf Grasses
Cool Season Grasses, 80% of Eto
Botanical name
Common name
Type
Kc
Kc
Turf Varieties
Comments
Agrostis palustris
Creeping Bentgrass
C
H
0.8
Penncross, A-4
 
Poa pratensis
Kentucky Bluegrass
C
H
0.8
Rugby, Cobolt
Blu-Rye Mix
Festuca rubra
Red Fescue
C
H
0.8
Dawson
 
Festuca arundinacea
Tall Fescue
C
H
0.8
Marathon
 
Festuca arundinacea
Tall Fescue, Dwarf Varieties
C
H
0.8
Bonsai, Matodor
 
Lolium perenne
Perennial Ryegrass
C
H
0.8
Saturn, Manhattan
Bue-Rye Mix
Warm Season Grasses, 60% of Eto
Botanical name
Common name
Type
Kc
Kc
Turf Varieties
Comments
Cynondon dactylon
Common Bermudagrass
W
M
0.5
Safari, Sultan
 
Cynondon species
Hybrid Bermudagrass
W
M
0.5
Santa Ana, TifDwarf -Tifway
Buchloe dactyloides
Buffalograss
W
M
0.5
Texoka, Cody
 
Zoysia japonica
Zoysia
W
M
0.5
De Anza, El Toro
 
Stenotaphrum secundatum
St. Augustine
W
M
0.5
Sod Only
 
Pennisetum clandestinum
Kukuyugrass
W
M
0.5
AZ1, Whittet
 
Notes:
1.
In areas designated as Very High Fire Severity Zones and High Fire Severity Zones, the list of allowed plants shall be the most current version Calflora's Fire Safe Plant List, as may be amended from time to time.
Appendix D Sample Certificate of Completion
This certificate is to be filled out by the project applicant upon completion of the landscape project.
PART 1. PROJECT INFORMATION SHEET
Date
Project Name
Name of Project Applicant Telephone No.
Fax No.
Title
Email Address Company Street Address City, State
Zip Code
Project Address and Location:
Street Address
Parcel, tract or lot number, if available. City Latitude/Longitude (optional) City, State
Zip Code
Property Owner or his/her designee:
Name Telephone No. Fax No.
Title
Email Address Company Street Address City, State
Zip Code
Property Owner
"I/we certify that I/we have received copies of all the documents within the Landscape Documentation Package and the Certificate of Completion and that it is our responsibility to see that the project is maintained in accordance with the Landscape and Irrigation Maintenance Schedule."
Property Owner Signature
Date
Please answer the questions below:
1.
Date the Landscape Documentation Package was submitted to the local agency ________.
2.
Date the Landscape Documentation Package was approved by the local agency ________.
3.
Date that a copy of the Water Efficient Landscape Worksheet (including the Water Budget Calculation) was submitted to the local water purveyor________.
PART 2. CERTIFICATION OF INSTALLATION ACCORDING TO THE LANDSCAPE DOCUMENTATION PACKAGE
"I/we certify that based upon periodic site observations, the work has been substantially completed in accordance with the ordinance and that the landscape planting and irrigation installation conform with the criteria and specifications of the approved Landscape Documentation Package."
Signature* Date
Name (print) Telephone No. Fax No.
Title
Email Address
License No. or Certification No. Company Street Address
City, State Zip Code
*Signer of the landscape design plan, signer of the irrigation plan, or a licensed landscape contractor.
PART 3. IRRIGATION SCHEDULING
Attach parameters for setting the irrigation schedule on controller.
PART 4. SCHEDULE OF LANDSCAPE AND IRRIGATION MAINTENANCE
Attach schedule of Landscape and Irrigation Maintenance.
PART 5. LANDSCAPE IRRIGATION AUDIT REPORT
Attach Landscape Irrigation Audit Report.
PART 6. SOIL MANAGEMENT REPORT
Attach soil analysis report, if not previously submitted with the Landscape Documentation Package. Attach documentation verifying implementation of recommendations from soil analysis report.
(Ord. 08-07 § 4; Ord. 09-08 § 4; Ord. 15-11 § 2; Ord. 2025-15, 11/18/2025)