High Point, NC Landscaping Rules: Artificial Turf (2026)
Key Facts
- Exempt from BUA if
- turf drains through backing
- Also required
- installed per manufacturer's specs
- Also required
- laid over a pervious surface
- Applies to
- watershed & stormwater impervious-cover limits
- Source
- §10.4 Definitions, 'Built-Upon Area'
Summary
High Point's Development Ordinance excludes artificial turf from the 'built-upon area' impervious-surface count, as long as the turf drains through its backing and sits over a pervious surface per the manufacturer's specs.
Impervious surface and partially impervious surface to the extent that the partially impervious surface does not allow water to infiltrate through the surface and into the subsoil. None of the following surfaces shall be considered BUA or an impervious or partially impervious surface: ... 6) Artificial turf, manufactured to allow water to drain through the backing of the turf, and installed according to the manufacturer's specifications over a pervious surface.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 9 | Development Ordinance: Supplement 14).
Full Breakdown
Section 10.4's definition of Built-Upon Area (BUA) lists the surfaces that don't count toward a lot's impervious-cover total under High Point's stormwater and watershed rules. Artificial turf makes the exempt list, but only if it's manufactured to let water drain through the backing, installed to the manufacturer's specifications, and laid over a pervious surface: ordinary turf laid over compacted soil or an impermeable pad doesn't qualify and would be counted as impervious cover against the lot's built-upon-area limit.
Violations & Fines
Installing turf that doesn't drain, or laying it over an impermeable base, means the area still counts as built-upon area and can push a lot over its watershed impervious-cover limit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does artificial turf count against my lot's impervious surface limit in High Point?
What kind of artificial turf doesn't qualify for the exemption?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in High Point
How High Point compares: Most Artificial Turf-Friendly Cities·Compare High Point to another location·View the North Carolina landscaping rules overview
See something wrong?
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.