Non-functional turf refers to ornamental grass that serves no practical purpose, such as street medians and parking lot landscaping. This type of turf is maintained primarily for aesthetic reasons rather than for recreational or community activities. In contrast, functional turf is grass that is actively used for recreational purposes, civic events, or community gatherings.

The irrigation ban applies to CII properties including those below, 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

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.

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.

No, the ban only applies to CII properties.

No, the ban only prohibits the use of potable water to irrigate non-functional turf at CII properties. Potable water is defined as water that is suitable for human consumption.

Yes, the bill allows for the irrigation of trees within 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.