To participate in the Program, a property owner must:
A. Own a single-family residential property in the City with existing landscaping, and occupy the property continuously for the entire period of time that the property is subject to the Program.
B. Have the desire and the ability to convert the existing landscaping on the property to less water-intensive landscaping.
C. Sign and submit to the Department a properly completed application for participation in the Program, in a form prescribed by the Department for that purpose. The application must accurately set forth:
1. The street address and Assessor's Parcel Number of the property.
2. A description of the landscaping that is to be retired and replaced.
3. A description of the Water Wise Landscape that is to be installed.
The landscape must conform to the Guidelines, as follows:
a. The landscape shall consist of water-efficient, drought tolerant and native plant material, and may include ground covers, small plants, shrubs and appropriate trees. Buffer areas and bioswales may be included and may be designed with rocks, cobble or decomposed granite, landscaped shrubs or accents, or suitable ground cover.
b. All planted areas must be a minimum of one inch below adjacent hardscapes (sidewalks and driveways) to eliminate runoff and overflow of irrigation water.
c. Mounded or sloped planting areas that would contribute to runoff of irrigation water onto non-irrigated areas, walks, roadways or structures must be avoided.
d. Any turf areas shall be set back at least 24 inches from curbs, driveways, sidewalks or any other area that may result in runoff of irrigation water onto streets.
e. Plants having similar water requirements should be grouped together in hydrozones" so that watering can be done efficiently.
f. Annual color plantings should be used only in areas of high visibility where they can be seen and appreciated. Otherwise, perennial plantings should be the primary source of color.
g. Landscaping must not obstruct or interfere with street signs, lights, or visibility on roads or walkways.
4. The date on which the installation of the replacement landscaping will begin, which shall not be later than twelve (12) months from the date of submittal of the application.
5. The date on which the installation of the replacement landscaping will be completed, which must not be later than the next May 31 immediately following the date on which the installation is to begin.
D. Sign and submit to the Department a properly completed Water Wise Landscape Agreement. The Agreement shall require that the participant agree to maintain the replacement landscaping to ensure water efficiency.