What is Assembly Bill 1572?

A new California law aimed at reducing the use of drinking water for irrigating non-functional turf (decorative grass that serves no recreational purpose).

 

Key Dates:

• Jan 1, 2027: Applies to state & local government properties
• Jan 1, 2028: Applies to commercial, industrial, and institutional properties
• Jan 1, 2029: Expands to homeowners' association (HOA) common areas
• Jan 1, 2031: May apply to disadvantaged communities (depending on funding)

 

What is Non-Functional Turf?

• Grass areas not used for recreation or events and include decorative lawns in parking lots, road medians, or building frontages
• Does NOT include residential lawns, sports fields, parks, cemeteries, or areas using recycled water

 

What You’ll Need to Do:

• Identify and assess turf areas on your property
• Plan for conversion to drought-tolerant landscaping
• Stay informed - larger properties (5,000+ sq ft turf) must self-certify compliance every three years starting in 2030
• Check for local rebates or grants to help offset the cost of turf replacement

 

Why it Matters:

• Supports long-term water conservation
• Prepares communities for drought resilience
• Reduces landscape water bills

 

Click below for more info on local rebate programs and educational support:

 

https://socalwatersmart.com/en/commercial/

 

https://socalwatersmart.com/en/residential/rebates/available-rebates/turf-replacement-program/

 

https://nonfunctionalturfca.org