Artificial Turf: Castro Valley vs Hayward
How do artificial turf rules compare between Castro Valley, CA and Hayward, CA?
Castro Valley and Hayward have similar restriction levels.
Castro Valley, CA
Alameda County
Artificial turf is permitted in Alameda County as a water-saving lawn alternative. State AB 1572 restricts potable irrigation of non-functional natural turf starting 2027, boosting turf adoption.
View full Castro Valley rules →Hayward, CA
Alameda County
Artificial turf is allowed at Hayward single-family homes. California AB 1572 and Civil Code 4735 protect turf choices in HOAs.
View full Hayward rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Castro Valley | Hayward |
|---|---|---|
| Status | Permitted | - |
| HOA protection | AB 349 | - |
| AB 1572 | Phases out potable irrigation of non-functional turf | Non-functional turf ban |
| Drainage | Required | - |
| Local ban | None | - |
| Allowed | - | Yes, single-family |
| Permeable base | - | Required |
| HOA limits | - | Restricted by Civ Code 4735 |
| Permit | - | Usually not required |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Castro Valley FAQ
Can my HOA ban artificial turf?
No, California AB 349 prohibits HOAs from banning drought-tolerant landscaping including artificial turf at single-family homes.
Do I need a permit?
Generally no for residential installations, but commercial projects and installations over a certain size may trigger grading or drainage review; check with Alameda County Planning.
Hayward FAQ
Can my HOA ban artificial turf?
No. California Civil Code 4735 prohibits HOAs from banning low-water or drought-tolerant landscaping including turf alternatives.
Do I need a permit?
Not for flat yard replacement under 500 sq ft; larger projects may need MWELO review.
Compare other topics
See how Castro Valley and Hayward compare on other ordinance categories.
Want to add a third city?
Use our full comparison tool to compare up to three cities.
Open Comparison Tool