Artificial turf is legal in Fresno front and back yards. California Civil Code §4735 prohibits HOAs from banning artificial turf, and AB 349 (2015) further protects the right to install. Installations over 500 square feet need WELO documentation. Permeable base and proper drainage are required to prevent stormwater issues.
California Civil Code §4735 (amended by AB 349 in 2015) expressly prohibits HOAs from banning artificial turf on homeowner-maintained areas. Fresno has no city ordinance prohibiting artificial turf in residential yards and actively promotes it for water conservation. Installations must comply with WELO for landscape projects over 500 square feet and with stormwater rules requiring a permeable base (typically 3-4 inches of crushed granite or decomposed granite) to allow infiltration. Infill materials must be non-toxic; crumb rubber infill is not prohibited but is disfavored in proximity to pets and children because of heat retention and PFAS concerns. Turf warranties in Fresno are often 8-10 years; summer surface temperatures on dark turf can exceed 160°F requiring UV-stabilized products. AB 1572 non-functional turf rules concern natural grass only; replacement with artificial turf is an explicit compliance path. Some HOAs regulate aesthetics (pile height, color, mowing lines) but cannot outright ban.
Specific penalty amounts for this ordinance are not published in a publicly accessible fine schedule. Contact Fresno code enforcement directly for current fines, enforcement procedures, and hearing options.
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Fresno County.
See how other cities in Fresno County handle artificial turf.
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