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1. Can my HOA stop me from Xeriscaping my yard?

Your HOA must allow its residents to use Xeric landscaping. C.R.S. (§ 37-60-126, et seq.) states that HOA’s are prohibited from creating restricting covenants that forbid xeriscape or drought tolerant vegetation or require ground covering consisting of only turf.  You must still follow the town laws put forward in the Unified Development Code (UDC), so you can’t cover your entire lawn with rock or concrete. 

2. How much water will I save by implementing Xeric landscaping?

Estimating the water savings associated with xeriscaping can be a bit complicated because of the wide variety of options and projects. Some studies have shown that xeriscaping can save households 120 gallons of water/day.

3. Can my Xeriscape be a DIY job?

Yes. If the project encompasses any part of a public right of way, you will need to acquire a right of way permit. 

4. DIY vs. hiring the job out?

1. DIY projects cost around $2/sq foot of area converted and require a lot of labor. 
2. Professional projects cost an average of $5/sqft but can be completed in a short period of time by a crew. 

5. Will I have to install a new irrigation system?

As with any new landscaping, you will need to change the way its watered. You can water by hand, or change up your existing irrigation system to fit the needs of the new plants.

6. What kinds of plants should I be planting? Does the Town of Erie recommend specific plants?

1. Colorado State University has a great resource available to help with deciding on strategies for planting your xeric landscape. You can find guides to perennial and annual flowers as well as trees and shrubs.
2. The Town does not have any specific plants or designs that it recommends.