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Nonfunctional turf is a turf area (grass, lawn) that is not in a recreational use area or community space. Turf on street medians, parkways, parking lots, and enclosed by fencing to permanently prevent access is also nonfunctional.

In other words, nonfunctional turf is the kind of grass that no one uses. If the only time someone walks on your lawn is when the landscaper mows it, it’s likely nonfunctional.

State law (AB 1572, 2023) will prohibit using potable water to irrigate nonfunctional turf located on commercial, industrial, and institutional properties, and on common areas of homeowners’ association properties.

Additional information, guidance, and recommendations for commercial & industrial, public properties, educational institutions, homeowner associations, and professional landscapers are available at NonFunctionalTurfCA.org

Replacing unused lawn with beautiful California-friendly plants saves water and money. For more information about turf replacement incentives, visit our Commercial Rebates & Programs page.