Indio, CA Landscaping Rules: Artificial Turf (2026)

Synthetic turf may be used as a substitute for natural turf for the purposes of water conservation, or in high activity or foot-traffic areas such as sports fields. The following standards shall apply to the use and maintenance of synthetic turf.

a. Synthetic turf shall consist of lifelike individual blades of grass that emulate real grass in look and color and have a minimum pile height of one and one-half inches.

b. Synthetic turf used for pet areas shall be specifically formulated for that purpose.

c. A proper drainage system shall be installed underneath to prevent excess runoff or pooling of water.

d. Synthetic turf shall be installed and maintained to effectively simulate the appearance of a well maintained lawn.

e. The use of indoor or outdoor plastic or nylon carpeting as a replacement for synthetic turf or natural turf shall be prohibited.

f. Trees should be kept a minimum of 10 feet away from synthetic turf areas.

g. Synthetic Turf Maintenance Guidelines.

i. Synthetic turf should be maintained free of moss, mold, algae, and fungi growth.

ii. Chemical agents or contaminated water should not be applied to synthetic turf.

iii. A turf groomer should be used to maintain the distribution of the infill material in the turf and to raise the turf fibers. Brushing should be performed every couple weeks, raking of the turf should be performed once a month, and cleaning/sanitizing should be performed once a year.

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