Xeriscaping

XERISCAPE FAQ

1. Will xeriscaping increase individual water bills? Are there any fees associated with xeriscaping?

All irrigation costs will continue to be paid just as they are today - from monthly dues. Owners won’t be billed individually for irrigation water or xeriscape startup costs, and there are no fees associated with xeriscaping. It isn’t possible to submeter the irrigation system because irrigation watering is zone-based, instead of being tied to specific condominiums. Overall, xeriscaping will lower water costs.

2. Will dues be decreased if some portion of lawn areas are converted to xeriscape?

Xeriscaping does not involve direct billing to homeowners for irrigation water, so there would be no dues adjustment associated directly with implementation of xeriscaping. Lower water cost associated with xeriscaping would contribute to a reduction in the total water budget and reduce the need for dues increases while providing additional funding for other Association needs.

3. The amount paid for water by each owner from dues is predictable and constant. Will xeriscaping change that?

No. Since the Association will continue to pay for irrigation water, there will continue to be a line item in the budget for water, but it will be less than today since xeriscaping will reduce the amount of water used.

4. Is there any sort of contract associated with xeriscaping?

No. Installing xeriscape is just converting one type of plant and ground cover to another one. The Association will continue to be responsible, through our landscape maintenance company, for care and maintenance of the entire common area.

5. Have other 7 Oaks condominium associations replaced turf with xeriscaping?

Only in very limited ways, but not the extent that we are contemplating. Other Associations have converted significant grass areas to xeriscaping. The Board inspected some of them. Many layouts, plants, plot sizes, and materials are available. Also, three areas in HOA #1 were converted several years ago: along Rancho Bernardo Road, behind 12325/27/29 Santiago Road East and at the corner of Meandro Drive and Meandro Road.

6. If the Board votes to adopt xeriscaping, when will it start?

It’s important to make a decision and start as soon as possible in order to reserve rebate funds before they are depleted. Funds are available for the state’s fiscal year of July-June. As of November 27, 2021, 62% of rebate funds are still available. Currently we on step #1 below.

Steps to accomplish xeriscaping:

1. Identify areas to be xeriscaped with owner and landscape company input.

2. Create a xeriscape plan

3. Determine potential cost savings.

4. Gain Board approval.

5. Hire a landscape company to install xeriscaping.

6. Apply for rebates.

7. Receive approval for rebates that locks in rebate payment.

8. Install xeriscaping.

9. Receive rebates.