Non-Functional Turf (NFT)
In the fall of 2023, Assembly Bill 1572 was enacted, banning the use of potable water for irrigating non-functional turf on commercial, industrial, and institutional properties (CII). This new legislation, which will replace the temporary irrigation ban imposed during the previous drought, will be phased in starting January 1, 2027.
What is non-functional and functional turf?
Non-functional turf refers to decorative grass maintained primarily for aesthetic reasons rather than for recreational or community activities. In contrast, functional turf grass is actively used for recreational purposes, civic events or community gatherings.
What properties are affected?
The irrigation ban applies to all CII properties including but not limited to:
- City and county land
- Educational institutions
- Government, public agency buildings
- Grocery and retail stores
- Homeowner association common areas
- Hospitals
- Office, warehouse, and industrial buildings
- Religious institutions
- Restaurants
When will this ban take effect?
Compliance will be phased in beginning January 1, 2027:
- January 1, 2027 – All properties owned by local governments, local or regional public agencies and public water systems.
- January 1, 2028 – All other institutional, commercial and industrial properties. These properties include schools, hospitals, offices, warehouses, industrial buildings, religious institutions, and restaurants.
- January 1, 2029 – All common areas of properties of homeowners’ associations, common interest developments and community service organizations or similar entities.
- January 1, 2031 – All properties owned by local governments, local public agencies, and public water systems in disadvantaged communities.
Why convert turf?
Transforming turf into a waterwise landscape offers a viable alternative to completely halting irrigation. By using efficient irrigation systems and selecting climate-appropriate plants, regenerative landscapes can conserve water, enhance biodiversity, sequester carbon, and beautify our communities.
Our Partners continue to have programs to help reduce the cost of removing turf. Please visit the Programs Directory to see if your water provider offers rebates, or incentives.
Does the ban apply to residential properties?
The ban applies to CII properties and homeowners’ associations common areas.
Does the ban apply to recycled water?
No, the ban only prohibits the use of potable water to irrigate non-functional turf at CII properties and common areas of homeowners’ associations. Potable water is defined as water that is suitable for human consumption.
I have trees in my turf, can I still irrigate them?
Yes, the bill allows for the irrigation of trees within non-functional turf. However, while irrigating trees, it is expected that the customer irrigates for the appropriate water needs and irrigation methods best suited for those trees, not for the turf, which may include capping, redirecting, and/or converting overhead spray to drip.
Are there rebates to help with replacing non-functional turf?
Yes, please visit our Programs Directory page or visit your water providers website. Now is the time to take advantage of turf removal rebates through your water provider.
Please refer to Assembly Bill 1572 for more information.
If you have any questions, feel free to email the Sonoma-Marin Saving Water Partnership – savewater@scwa.ca.gov