San Jose, CA Landscaping Rules: Artificial Turf (2026)

Artificial turf is legal in San Jose residential and commercial landscapes and has become increasingly popular for water conservation. Installation typically does not require a planning permit for single-family homes, but must comply with stormwater management rules: the sub-base must drain properly to prevent runoff pooling, and impervious-surface thresholds in certain overlay zones may limit total coverage. AB 1572, signed in 2023, prohibits the use of potable water to irrigate non-functional turf at commercial, industrial, institutional, and HOA common-area properties, with phased compliance through 2031. Non-functional turf means grass that is purely decorative and not used for recreation. The law effectively pushes owners of office parks, strip malls, and HOA common areas toward artificial turf, drought-tolerant landscaping, or recycled-water irrigation. Residential yards are exempt from AB 1572 but remain subject to local water-waste rules. Valley Water (Santa Clara Valley Water District) offers rebates for converting natural grass to artificial turf or drought-tolerant landscaping in participating programs. HOAs in Silver Creek, Evergreen, and Almaden Valley often require specific turf products, color matches, and minimum drainage infill; CA Civil Code §4735 prohibits HOAs from prohibiting turf conversion during declared droughts. Turf must be kept clean, brushed, and replaced when worn to avoid code violations for blighted landscaping.