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About WELO

Why is WELO Important?

The intent of the Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance is to provide for efficient water use in new and rehabilitated landscaping through soil preparation, plant selection, and irrigation system design. The ordinance serves to protect local water supplies through the implementation of a whole systems approach to design, construction, installation, and maintenance of the landscape resulting in water conserving climate-appropriate landscapes, improved water quality, and the minimization of natural resource inputs.

When Does it Apply?

The ordinance applies to any new or rehabilitated landscape projects that require a building or grading permit, plan check, or design review that fall under any of the following categories:

a. New construction project with a landscape area equal to or greater than 500 square feet.

b. Rehabilitated landscape project with a landscape area equal to or greater than 2,500 square feet.

WELO by City and County

Every municipality in California has the option to either adopt the State MWELO or create their own with more strict guidelines. Make sure you know the ordinance that is specific to the city or county your project is in.

Here are some links you will find helpful if you would like to learn more about the Model Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance (MWELO): 

Here you will find the 2015 California Model Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance (MWELO), along with other useful links. 

Use the Water Use Classification of Landscape Species (WUCOLS) plant list to determine the water use classification of every plant on your project.

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