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

Artificial turf is broadly permitted throughout San Bernardino County and is actively promoted as a water conservation measure. California Civil Code 4735, strengthened by AB 349 (2015) and subsequent updates, prohibits HOAs and common interest developments from enforcing any rule that prohibits homeowners from installing artificial turf or drought-tolerant landscaping. HOAs may set reasonable aesthetic standards such as minimum pile height and color, but cannot ban synthetic turf outright. Installations must still include adequate drainage, typically a permeable sub-base of crushed rock, and infill material. In Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones (mountain communities, foothills), fire authorities increasingly recommend that artificial turf within 5 feet of structures (Zone 0) meet ASTM E108 Class A fire-resistance ratings because heated synthetic turf near structures can contribute to ember ignition. Local water agencies including SBVMWD, Cucamonga Valley Water District, and Mojave Water Agency offer turf replacement rebates that can cover a significant portion of synthetic turf installation costs.