Multi-family dwelling landscaping requirements.
San José Municipal Code § 17.72.535
in effect17.72.535 - Multi-family dwelling landscaping requirements.
A. A multi-family dwelling subject to a Development Permit shall be landscaped in accordance with the requirements of the Development Permit. A multi-family dwelling with new and rehabilitated landscaping subject to Chapter 15.11 of this Code shall be landscaped and maintained in accordance with the water efficiency landscaping requirements of Chapter 15.11.
B. Subject to the paved surface limitations contained in Section 20.30.440 of Title 20 of this Code, a multi-family dwelling, not subject to a Development Permit or the requirements of Chapter 15.11 of this Code, shall have landscaping installed in the nonpaved portions of the front and side yards that are visible from any street. For purpose of this subsection only, "landscaping" means that:
1. At least fifty percent (50%) of the nonpaved portions of the front and side yards that are visible from any street shall be covered with live trees, shrubs, lawns, or other live plant materials; and
2. The remaining portion of the nonpaved portions of the front and side yards that are visible from any street shall be covered with live trees, shrubs, lawns, or other live plant materials or shall have Decorative Landscaping installed.
C. If Decorative Landscaping is used to meet the requirements of this Section, Weed Block shall also be used.
D. Failure to meet the landscaping requirements of this Section constitutes property blight.
(Ords. 26710, 30765.)
Source: City of San José, Municipal Code (Municode Library, library.municode.com)URL: https://library.municode.com/ca/san_jose/codes/code_of_ordinances?nodeId=TIT17BUCO_CH17.72COPR_PT5DEPRBL_17.72.535MUMIDWLAREFetched: 11/1/2026