Low-Water Landscaping Ordinance introduced in Fountain Hills

The low-water landscape ordinance adopted by the Fountain Hills Town Council went into effect on January 8, 2007. The ordinance requires that landscaping for all new residential, multi-family and commercial developments feature low-water use plants and watering systems, and encourages residents and businesses to transition to low-water plants when replacing existing vegetation.

The Arizona Municipal Water Users Association estimates that between 50 and 70% of domestic water use in Arizona is for watering landscaping. Conserving water by choosing drought-resistant plantings and using appropriate watering techniques will have a positive impact on Arizona’s water supply.

While low-water plants are not required for currently landscaped properties, existing properties come under the ordinance if more than 50% or greater than 1,000 square feet of the property is re-landscaped. The ordinance exempts up to 1,000 square feet of private unrestricted space in rear yards. The complete document is available by clicking the “Low Water Landscaping Ordinance” line below, or can be picked up at the information desk in the lobby of the Town Hall. Individuals interested in the “Approved Plant List” portion of the ordinance may access it below as well.

The expansion of the low-water requirements reflects one of the priorities resulting from the 2005 Strategic Planning process. The Town Council felt the adoption of a low-water use ordinance captured the residents’ desire to ensure the community’s commitment to conservation and to retaining the unique character of Fountain Hills’ picturesque Sonoran Desert environment.

This webpage will be updated periodically to provide Consumer tips for reducing water consumption, seasonal planting and plant-care updates, and highlight upcoming educational opportunities.

Questions about your desert plants?  Call the Desert Botanical Garden's Desert Plant question hotline at 480-941-1225 Monday to Friday 10 to 11:30AM.