Hayward, CA Landscaping Rules: Artificial Turf (2026)
Key Facts
- Allowed
- Yes, single-family
- Permeable base
- Required
- HOA limits
- Restricted by Civ Code 4735
- Permit
- Usually not required
- AB 1572
- Non-functional turf ban
Summary
Artificial turf is allowed at Hayward single-family homes. California AB 1572 and Civil Code 4735 protect turf choices in HOAs.
(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 Section 65595 of the Government Code.
(B) Any regulation or restriction on the use of water adopted pursuant to Section 353 or 375 of the Water Code.
(b) This section shall not prohibit an association from applying landscaping rules established in the governing documents, to the extent the rules fully conform with subdivision (a).
(c) Notwithstanding any other provision of this part, except as provided in subdivision (d), an association shall not impose a fine or assessment against an owner of a separate interest for reducing or eliminating the watering of vegetation or lawns during any period for which either of the following have occurred:
(1) The Governor has declared a state of emergency due to drought pursuant to subdivision (b) of Section 8558 of the Government Code.
(2) A local government has declared a local emergency due to drought pursuant to subdivision (c) of Section 8558 of the Government Code.
Full Breakdown
Hayward does not ban synthetic turf at single-family homes and permits it as a MWELO-compliant alternative to natural grass in front and back yards. Installations must be permeable to allow stormwater infiltration, meet minimum product standards for infill and UV stability, and not create drainage problems that affect neighbors. Some Hayward HOAs historically banned artificial turf, but California Civil Code 4735 prohibits HOAs from restricting low-water landscaping or requiring that only living plants be used in a homeowner's yard. AB 1572, effective 2027 for non-residential properties, bans irrigation of non-functional turf at commercial, industrial, and HOA common areas, making artificial turf and drought-tolerant plantings increasingly common replacements. Building permits are not required for flat yard turf replacement but hardscape changes over 500 sq ft may trigger MWELO review.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can my HOA ban artificial turf?
Do I need a permit?
Sources & Official References
- [1]CA Civ Code 4735
- [2]AB 1572
Other rules in Hayward
How Hayward compares: Most Artificial Turf-Friendly Cities·California rules heatmap·Compare Hayward to another location·View the California landscaping rules overview
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