Alhambra allows artificial turf in private yards under detailed quality standards but bans it in parkways. Synthetic turf must be infill-type with a minimum 1-2/3 inch pile, multiple green colors, a permeable backing draining at least 30 inches per hour, and professional installation. Hardscape and turf can't exceed front-yard limits.
The City of Alhambra permits artificial/synthetic turf on private property subject to design standards in its zoning code (AMC Chapter 23.17, e.g., 23.17.050), but it is not allowed in the parkway (the City-owned strip between sidewalk and curb). When installed in permitted areas, the turf must be cut-pile infill with a minimum pile height of one and two-thirds inches and a maximum of one and three-quarter inches, contain at least two natural green colors plus a beige or tan thatch layer, and be affixed to a permeable triple-layer backing that drains at least 30 inches per hour. Installation must be by a licensed professional and include removal of all existing plant material plus three inches of compacted aggregate base for drainage; turf may not be installed within a five-foot diameter of any tree trunk. It must be maintained attractive, clean and unfaded, free of weeds, stains, tears, holes, ruts, odors and loose edges or seams. Front-yard hardscape caps still apply (up to 25% non-decorative and 25% decorative permeable hardscape, keeping live plants primary). At the state level, California Civil Code 4735 bars HOAs from prohibiting artificial turf. These standards are Alhambra's own, not Los Angeles County's.
Turf that fails the material, drainage, or installation standards, is placed in the parkway, or is poorly maintained (faded, torn, weedy) can be cited under the zoning/property-maintenance code. Exceeding front-yard hardscape limits is also a code violation.
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