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🌿 Landscaping Rules/Artificial Turf

Artificial Turf: Hayward vs Sunol

How do artificial turf rules compare between Hayward, CA and Sunol, CA?

Hayward and Sunol have similar restriction levels.

Hayward, CA

Alameda County

Few Restrictions

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 β†’

Sunol, CA

Alameda County

Few Restrictions

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 Sunol rules β†’

Key Facts Comparison

FactHaywardSunol
AllowedYes, single-family-
Permeable baseRequired-
HOA limitsRestricted by Civ Code 4735-
PermitUsually not required-
AB 1572Non-functional turf banPhases out potable irrigation of non-functional turf
Status-Permitted
HOA protection-AB 349
Drainage-Required
Local ban-None

Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.

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.

Sunol 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.

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