The purpose of this chapter is to ensure that the design, installation and maintenance of landscapes within the city of Palos Verdes Estates meet the requirements of the state of California model water efficient landscape ordinance as outlined in Title 23, Division 2, Chapter 2.7 of the California Code of Regulations and Section 65595 of the California Government Code. (Ord. 762 § 3, 2023)

The state of California model water efficient landscape ordinance (“MWELO”), as found in Chapter 2.7 of Division 2 of Title 23 of the California Code of Regulations, and as amended from time to time by the state of California, is hereby adopted by reference in its entirety as if incorporated and set out in full in this chapter as the water efficient landscaping ordinance of the city of Palos Verdes Estates. A copy of the MWELO has been filed with the city clerk. (Ord. 762 § 3, 2023)

Applicants shall provide all relevant information on the landscape plan including botanical names for plants and turf species; container sizes; percentage calculations of allowable areas of turf; low-, medium- or high-water-use plants and water wise plants; water budget calculations; monthly irrigation schedule; and specific requests for any exceptions to the requirements of this chapter. Areas of existing landscaping to remain unaltered shall be indicated on the landscape plan. (Ord. 762 § 3, 2023)

The requirements of this chapter shall be enforced as follows:

A. No building permit shall be issued unless the statement of compliance required by Section 492.6 of the MWELO has been included on the final landscape design plan submitted for plan check approval.

B. No building permit shall be given a final landscape inspection or issued a permanent certificate of occupancy until the director receives and approves of the certificate of completion as required by Section 492.9 of the MWELO. (Ord. 762 § 3, 2023)

A. It is unlawful for any person to violate, to cause, or to maintain a violation of this chapter.

B. It is unlawful for any person to remove or cause removal of water-conserving irrigation valves or equipment contrary to the provisions of this chapter.

C. Any person violating any of the provisions of this chapter will be deemed guilty of a misdemeanor punishable pursuant to Chapter 1.16 PVEMC.

D. Violations of this chapter are also subject to the administrative penalty procedures pursuant to Chapter 1.50 PVEMC. (Ord. 762 § 3, 2023)