If you're planning to undertake any outdoor project in the City of Santa Monica, understanding the landscape requirements is crucial. Here’s a guide to help you navigate through the city’s regulations and incentives.

When it comes to landscaping in the City of Santa Monica, there are several key factors to consider, from water conservation to urban runoff mitigation. The city has implemented a range of regulations and programs aimed at ensuring sustainable and environmentally friendly landscaping practices.

Water Conservation and Efficiency

One of the primary focuses of the City of Santa Monica is water conservation. The city aims to achieve water self-sufficiency, relying solely on local groundwater and other local sources to meet water demand. This goal is part of a broader strategy to withstand intermittent rain and prolonged droughts.

For property owners, this means converting to drought-tolerant landscaping and installing efficient irrigation systems. The city offers resources and incentives, such as the Cash for Grass and Spray to Drip rebate programs, to encourage residents to replace water-hogging lawns with California-inspired gardens and switch to drip irrigation systems. These programs not only help save water but also provide financial benefits to homeowners.

Urban Runoff Mitigation

Another critical aspect is managing urban runoff. According to the Santa Monica Municipal Code (SMMC) Section 7.10, redevelopment projects must mitigate onsite runoff from impervious areas. This can be achieved through various Low Impact Development (LID) Best Management Practices (BMPs), such as capturing and reusing runoff, or by paying an in-lieu fee for runoff not captured onsite.

For example, if you're planning a construction project, you'll need to ensure that your design includes measures to capture and treat onsite runoff. This could involve installing rain gardens, permeable pavers, or other systems that reduce stormwater runoff and prevent pollutants from entering the city's waterways.

Offsite Improvements and Plan Check Requirements

When undertaking a private development project, you'll need to comply with the city's offsite improvement requirements. These are governed by the Santa Monica Municipal Code (SMMC) Section 7.04.800 and involve improvements to city utilities, streets, alleys, and streetlighting. The Public Works Department, Engineering and Street Services Division, provides plan check services to ensure that these improvements meet the city's standards.

For instance, if your project requires new streetlights, they must be LED luminaires and constructed according to city standards. Additionally, the installation costs, including design and construction, are the responsibility of the project applicant.

Tree Protection and Urban Forest

The City of Santa Monica takes tree protection very seriously, with over 35,000 public trees across more than 250 species. The Public Landscape Division is responsible for maintaining trees on public streets and in parks, including planting, pruning, and removing trees when necessary. The city has also earned the designation of "Tree City USA" for 40 years due to its consistent management and care of the urban forest.

During construction, it's essential to adhere to the Standard Tree Protection Zone Guidelines to ensure that trees are protected during the development process. This involves designing mandatory tree protection zones and ensuring that construction activities do not harm the trees.

Construction and Demolition Waste Management

In addition to landscaping requirements, the city also has standards for construction and demolition material waste management. These standards are part of the city's broader goal to align with the Sustainable City Plan and the General Plan. When planning your project, you need to indicate the maximum rate of diversion for materials and explain any circumstances that make it infeasible to comply with the diversion requirements.

Rebate Programs and Incentives

The City of Santa Monica offers several rebate programs to encourage sustainable landscaping practices. The Cash for Grass program helps homeowners replace lawns with drought-tolerant landscaping, while the Spray to Drip program supports the replacement of sprinklers with efficient drip irrigation systems. These programs not only help reduce water consumption but also provide financial incentives to homeowners.

To apply for these rebates, you need to determine your eligibility, submit an application, receive approval, prepare your project, and schedule an inspection. Upon passing the inspection, you'll receive your rebate check and can even display a “We (heart) Santa Monica” sign to show your commitment to water conservation.

Conclusion

In conclusion, landscaping in the City of Santa Monica involves a range of regulations and incentives aimed at promoting sustainable and environmentally friendly practices. From water conservation and urban runoff mitigation to tree protection and waste management, understanding these requirements is essential for any outdoor project.

By converting to drought-tolerant landscaping, using efficient irrigation systems, and complying with offsite improvement and tree protection guidelines, you can ensure that your project aligns with the city's goals. Additionally, taking advantage of rebate programs can make your project more cost-effective and environmentally sustainable.

Remember, the City of Santa Monica is committed to achieving water self-sufficiency and maintaining a resilient urban environment, and your compliance with these landscape requirements is a crucial part of this effort.

City of Santa Monica landscape requirements are not just regulations; they are a step towards a more sustainable future for everyone.