Nonfunctional Turf Guidance
California law (AB 1572) prohibits the use of potable (drinking) water to irrigate decorative grass that serves no recreational or community purpose at most commercial, industrial, and institutional (CII) properties, including common areas managed by Homeowner Associations (HOAs).
This law does not apply to residential homes, school and sport fields, designated play spaces and recreational areas.
What is Nonfunctional Turf?
Nonfunctional turf refers to irrigated lawn that is ornamental and not regularly used for recreation or public gatherings.
NONFUNCTIONAL LAWN
- Lawn in medians, roundabouts or parking lots
- Lawns between buildings with no clear use
- Decorative lawn along sidewalks, building edges, or fences
FUNCTIONAL LAWN
- School and sports fields
- Designated play spaces and picnic areas
- Any other areas where people regularly gather, play, or engage in recreational activities
COMPLIANCE DATES
January 1, 2027 – Local government public property
January 1, 2028 – Commercial, industrial, institutional (CII) properties
January 1, 2029 – HOA common areas
January 1, 2031 – Government properties in disadvantaged communities
Enforcement
Noncompliance with this ordinance shall be subject to civil liability and penalties as authorized by Water Code Section 1846 or through locally adopted District enforcement policies.
We’re Here to Help
Turf Replacement Rebate
Get $4 or more per square foot for up to 50,000 square feet of grass replaced with water-saving, sustainable landscaping. Funding is limited, reserve your rebate at SoCalWaterSmart.com.
Groundcovers
Plant low-maintenance lawn alternatives. Learn more about water-efficient and no-mow groundcovers at bewaterwise.com.
Sprinkler System
Replace your sprinkler system with efficient landscaping equipment. Commercial rebates for smart irrigation controllers and soil moisture sensors are available at SoCalWaterSmart.com.
More Information
- AB 1572 Guidance
- Visit NonFunctionalTurfCA.org to learn more
