Non-Functional Turf

Background

On October 13, 2023, the California legislature passed Assembly Bill 1572, Friedman (AB 1572), which prohibits using potable water to irrigate non-functional turf located on commercial, industrial, and institutional (CII) properties, including Homeowner Associations (HOAs).

Additionally, the bill requires public water systems to revise regulations, ordinances, or policies by January 1, 2027, and to communicate those changes to customers.

Definition

Non-functional turf is defined as decorative grass areas with no other functions, such as recreation. The prohibition includes turf on road medians and outside businesses not used for recreation. Functional grass areas, such as sports fields, picnic areas, cemeteries, and areas irrigated with nonpotable water, are exempt from the ban. Residential lawns are exempt from the regulation.

Compliance timeline by property type

January 1, 2027 – State and local government
January 1, 2028 – Commercial, industrial, and institutional
January 1, 2029 – HOA common areas, mobile home parks, retirement communities
January 1, 2031 – Government properties in disadvantaged communities

Why was the regulation implemented?

Every drought leaves behind a legal or regulatory mandate to improve water use efficiency. In March 2022, the governor signed Executive Order N-7-22, prohibiting the irrigation of non-functional turf with potable water. This initiative was part of an effort to conserve water and reduce waste during the 2020 -2022 drought. This led to the introduction and adoption of AB 1572.

AB 1572 was implemented to address water scarcity issues by reducing water usage in landscaping. Non-functional turf requires significant amounts of water, and replacing it with drought-resistant plants or other sustainable landscaping options helps conserve this precious resource.

In addition, CVWD has committed to joining other water agencies in taking several conservation actions listed in the Memorandum of Understanding by and among Colorado River Basin Municipal and Public Water Providers, including reducing non-functional turf by 30 percent.

Water conservation is a shared effort

For over 20 years, communities have adapted to persistent and intensifying dry weather and reduced imported water supplies by achieving significant water use efficiencies through conservation programs. Since 2022, CVWD has invested more than $18 million in turf replacement rebates for residential and HOA customers.

When you reduce your water footprint, you help secure the Coachella Valley’s water supplies for future generations.

Resources

Watch the Non-Functional Turf & Sustainable Landscaping Practice Program presentation from the Water Conservation Summit & Expo: H2O for HOAs
Visit our HOA and Commercial Rebates page for information on turf replacement and other available programs.
Download a copy of the Frequently Asked Questions (PDF).
Find tips on how to save water by visiting our Conservation page.
Read our Conservation Fact Sheet (PDF).
Learn about water conservation and long-term groundwater sustainability efforts for all customers.

FAQs

What is the compliance timeline?

January 1, 2029 – HOA common areas, mobile home parks, and retirement communities must permanently discontinue watering NFT in common areas to comply with AB 1572.
June 30, 2031 – HOAs must provide compliance reports to the State Water Resources Control Board every three years.

What is non-functional Turf?

Non-functional turf refers to grass areas that are purely decorative and do not serve a practical purpose for recreation or other functional activities. If the only time people walk on the turf is to mow it, then it’s likely non-functional.

What is AB 1572?

AB 1572 is a legislative act that prohibits the irrigation of non-functional turf with potable water in certain areas to promote water conservation and sustainable landscaping practices.

How should HOAs prepare to comply with the NFT prohibition?

Steps to Get Started

Assess existing turf areas
Develop a plan to replace non-functional turf with sustainable alternatives.
Educate homeowners about the benefits of water-efficient landscaping.
Apply for any available rebate incentives for turf replacement.

*Apply early as funding is limited, and rebates are on a first-come-first-served basis.

Why was AB 1572 implemented?

AB 1572 was implemented to address water scarcity issues by reducing water usage in landscaping. Non-functional turf requires significant amounts of water and replacing it with water-efficient, desert-friendly plants or other sustainable landscaping options helps conserve water.

Which areas are affected by AB 1572?

AB 1572 applies to common areas managed by HOAs, commercial properties, and other specified areas.

Are rebates or incentives available for the removal of NFT?

Yes, CVWD offers rebates for turf replacement and high-efficiency irrigation. Visit our Conservation Rebates page at cvwd.org/rebates for more information; pre-approval is required.

What can be planted instead of grass?

Customers are encouraged to replace their grass with water-efficient, desert-friendly landscaping.

Will there be enforcement and/or penalties?

Penalties for non-compliance can include a fine of $500 per day.

Does AB 1572 require HOAs to connect to nonpotable water?

No, AB 1572 does not require connecting to nonpotable water. It only prohibits the irrigation of non-functional turf with potable water. If the turf is functional, it may continue to be irrigated with potable water.