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Rohnert Park moves to adopt California's model water-efficient landscaping rules
Summary
Council introduced and waived first reading of an ordinance to adopt the state's Model Water-Efficient Landscape Ordinance (MWELO), noting the city already applies the state's technical standards in permits and projects.
The Rohnert Park City Council on Sept. 10 introduced by title and waived the first reading of Ordinance 984, which adopts by reference the California Model Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance (MWELO).
Courtney Bowser, a management analyst in Public Works, explained MWELO sets minimum standards for landscape design, construction and maintenance to promote water efficiency, including thresholds that trigger compliance for new or rehabilitated landscapes. "MWELO is a model for local agencies to enforce minimum standards in water efficiency," she said.
Staff told the council that the city has been implementing the state's review and permitting requirements since 2021 for large new-construction and rehabilitation projects and that adopting the state model would align the city’s code with existing practice; the department also reported that the city already includes the standards in capital projects and landscape permits. Council approved introduction and waiving first reading by roll call, 5–0.
Next steps: staff will return for the ordinance second reading and adoption at the hearing date identified in the city calendar.
