San Diego County, CA Landscaping Rules: Artificial Turf (2026)

There is no county ordinance prohibiting synthetic or artificial turf in unincorporated San Diego County, and replacing thirsty lawn with synthetic turf can reduce outdoor water use. Under the County's Water Conservation in Landscaping Ordinance (County Code Title 8, Division 6, Chapter 7) and its design manual, irrigated (living) turf is limited to a maximum of 25% of the total landscaped area for single- and multi-family residences; artificial turf is not irrigated living turf and so is not counted against that living-turf percentage. However, the ordinance and the state Model Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance framework generally exclude artificial turf from the water-need calculation, meaning it is treated as a hardscape-like surface rather than as planted, water-saving landscape area for purposes of the water budget. Practical considerations still apply: synthetic turf areas should be designed for drainage and stormwater management so runoff does not leave the site, and in fire-prone areas defensible-space rules favor non-combustible ground cover near structures. Homeowners installing artificial turf on an existing yard without a permit generally do not need county approval, but turf installed as part of a permitted landscape or building project must conform to the approved landscape and grading plans. Confirm any HOA rules, which can be separate from county law.