The low-water landscaping ordinance adopted by the Fountain Hills, AZ Town Council went into effect on January 8, 2007.  The ordinance requires that landscaping for all new construction feature low-water use plants and watering systems, and encourages residents and businesses to transition to low-water plants when replacing existing vegetation.  While low-water plants are not required for currently landscaped properties, existing properties must comply with the ordinance if more than 50 percent or 1,000+ square feet of the property is re-landscaped.  The complete ordinance, including the approved plant list, is available on the Planning and Zoning section of the Town’s website at www.fh.az.gov, and at the information desk in the lobby of Town Hall. 

The creation of low-water landscaping requirements reflects one of the priorities identified in the 2006-2010 Strategic Plan.  “Town Council felt the adoption of a low-water landscape ordinance captured the residents’ commitment to conservation and retaining Fountain Hills’ picturesque Sonoran Desert environment,” said Mayor Wally Nichols.  Researchers indicate that 50-75 percent of domestic water use in Arizona is consumed by landscape watering. Conserving water by choosing drought-resistant plantings and using appropriate watering techniques will have a positive impact on Arizona’s water supply.

To help contractors, landscapers, and residents comply with the ordinance, and to support property owners who want to transition to water-wise landscapes, a comprehensive public education campaign will launch this month. The campaign will include adding a “water-wise” section on the Town’s web site, which will be updated quarterly to include information on seasonal planting, watering system improvement, do-it-yourself projects for homeowners, and a variety of tips.  The Town will also host landscape workshops and garden tours this spring.

For more information, visit the Town's website at http://www.fh.az.gov/