El Monte, CA Landscaping Rules: Artificial Turf (2026)
Key Facts
- Residential synthetic turf
- Allowed; check Division 7 design rules
- City code
- EMMC Chapter 17.74 + Division 7
- State ban (nonfunctional turf)
- AB 1572 / Cal. Water Code §10608.14
- Effective dates
- Public: 1/1/2027, Commercial: 1/1/2028, HOA: 1/1/2029
Summary
El Monte's WELO (Chapter 17.74) limits irrigated cool-season turf in new landscapes and treats synthetic turf as a low-water surface that counts toward water-conservation targets. California AB 1572 (Water Code §10608.14) bans potable-water irrigation of nonfunctional turf at non-residential properties starting January 1, 2027.
4735. (a) Notwithstanding any other law, a provision of the governing documents or architectural or landscaping guidelines or policies shall be void and unenforceable if it does any of the following: (1) Prohibits, or includes conditions that have the effect of prohibiting, the use of low water-using plants as a group or as a replacement of existing turf. (2) Prohibits, or includes conditions that have the effect of prohibiting, the use of artificial turf or any other synthetic surface that resembles grass. (3) Has the effect of prohibiting or restricting compliance with either of the following: (A) A water-efficient landscape ordinance adopted or in effect pursuant to subdivision (c) of Sec
Full Breakdown
Title 17 Chapter 17.74 (consistent with the state MWELO at 23 CCR §492.6) restricts turf in nonresidential landscapes and limits use of cool-season turf, while allowing artificial turf as a non-irrigated ground cover. The city's Landscape Ordinance does not prohibit residential synthetic turf, but installations on parkways or in required front-yard landscape areas must comply with the design standards in Division 7 (Parking and Landscaping Regulations) of the 2022 Zoning Code, including drainage to landscaped area (not storm drains). Effective Jan 1, 2027, AB 1572 (Cal. Water Code §10608.14, added 2023) prohibits use of potable water to irrigate 'nonfunctional turf' on properties owned by local agencies and public water systems; Jan 1, 2028 for commercial, industrial, and institutional properties; Jan 1, 2029 for HOA common areas. Single-family residential is exempt. Civil penalties up to $1,000 per day apply.
Violations & Fines
Local: artificial turf installed in violation of Division 7 design standards (drainage, setbacks, or parkway rules) is a zoning violation under EMMC §1.20 (general penalty). State: AB 1572 violations are enforceable by the State Water Resources Control Board with civil penalties up to $1,000/day after the applicable compliance date.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I replace my front lawn with artificial turf?
Will commercial properties have to remove grass by 2028?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in El Monte
How El Monte compares: Most Artificial Turf-Friendly Cities·California rules heatmap·Compare El Monte to another location·View the California landscaping rules overview
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