Kern County, CA Landscaping Rules: Artificial Turf (2026)
Key Facts
- Living drought-tolerant plants
- County cannot prohibit (GC 53087.7)
- Artificial turf
- Local regulation allowed since Jan 1, 2024 (SB 676)
- Kern County turf ban
- None identified for unincorporated areas
- HOA turf bans
- Void under Civil Code 4735(a)(2)
Summary
No Kern County ordinance prohibits artificial turf in unincorporated areas, and state law bars the county from prohibiting living drought-tolerant landscaping on residential property. HOA bans on artificial turf are void under state law, though since 2024 local governments may regulate synthetic turf if they choose.
53087.7. (a) A city, including a charter city, county, or city and county, shall not enact any ordinance or regulation, or enforce any existing ordinance or regulation, that prohibits the installation of drought-tolerant landscaping using living plant material on residential property. (b) For the purposes of this section, 'drought-tolerant landscaping' shall not include the installation of synthetic grass or artificial turf. (Amended by Stats. 2023, Ch. 498, Sec. 1. (SB 676) Effective January 1, 2024.)
Full Breakdown
California Government Code Section 53087.7 prohibits Kern County from enacting or enforcing any ordinance that bans drought-tolerant landscaping using living plant material on residential property. As amended by SB 676 (effective January 1, 2024), the statute expressly excludes synthetic grass and artificial turf from that protection, meaning counties may now regulate or prohibit artificial turf; however, no Kern County ordinance doing so was identified for unincorporated areas. Separately, Civil Code Section 4735(a)(2) voids any homeowners association governing document or landscaping guideline that prohibits, or effectively prohibits, the use of artificial turf or any other synthetic surface that resembles grass, and Section 4735(a)(1) likewise protects low water-using plants as a group or as a replacement of existing turf.
Violations & Fines
An HOA rule banning artificial turf or low water-using plants is void and unenforceable under Civil Code Section 4735(a). Because SB 676 now allows local regulation of synthetic turf, property owners should confirm current Kern County zoning requirements with the Planning and Natural Resources Department before large turf installations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I replace my lawn with artificial turf in unincorporated Kern County?
Can Kern County stop me from planting drought-tolerant landscaping?
Can my HOA fine me for removing my lawn?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Kern County
How Kern County compares: Most Artificial Turf-Friendly Cities·California rules heatmap·Compare Kern County to another location·View the California landscaping rules overview
See something wrong?
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.