Water Efficient Landscaping Ordinance

Model Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance (MWELO)

To comply with the statewide MWELO, the City of Morgan Hill has adopted its own Water Efficient Landscape Ordinances (WELO) (No. 2277, Chapter 18.148 and Chapter 18.64).

What Projects Need to Comply?

If your project is subject to a Design Review, the project must comply with two ordinances: 18.148 and 18.64.

Use the Design Permit Checklist (PDF).

What if my project is not subject to a Design Review?

  • Projects only subject to a Building Review are still required to comply with 18.148.
  • If your landscape plans are less than 1,000 square feet AND the project does not require a Design Permit, please utilize Appendix D.

Submitting Your Project for Approval

For landscaping plans to be approved, submit the following:

  • Completed Design Permit Checklist (PDF)
  • Water Budget Calculation (template (PDF)
  • Landscape Design Plan with Plant Selection Pallet and Specifications - must be only Low or Very Low water use per WUCOLS
  • Irrigation Plan and Specifications 
  • Hydrozone Map (color coded)
  • Grading Plan
  • Soil Management Report (different than the Geotechnical Report)
    • parameters must include soil texture, infiltration rate, pH, total soluble salts, sodium, percent of organic matter, and soil recommendations

Final Sign Off for the Project

Once the project is constructed and complete, part of your conditions of approval requires the submittal of the following documents prior to final sign off. Some of the documentation will require assistance from your landscape architect and a Certified Landscape Irrigation Auditor.

Quick Links