Does San Mateo, CA have its own artificial turf ordinance?

No. San Mateo, CA does not appear to have a local artificial turf ordinance, California state law applies instead. The rules summarized on this page come from CA Gov Code §65595.

Key Facts Ordinance Text Full Breakdown Violations FAQ Sources More in San Mateo

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

Some Restrictions

Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified September 2026

Key Facts

Permit: Generally not required
State Protection: CA Gov Code §65595
HOA Protection: CA Civil Code §4735
Water District: Cal Water: check rebates
Drainage: Must maintain proper drainage

Summary

Artificial turf is permitted in San Mateo. California Government Code 65595 prohibits cities from requiring natural grass. HOAs cannot prohibit water-efficient landscaping under Civil Code 4735. Cal Water may offer rebates for turf replacement.

4735. (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.

Source: CA Gov Code §65595View official code

Full Breakdown

Artificial turf installation is permitted in San Mateo for residential and commercial properties. California Government Code Section 65595 prevents cities from requiring water-intensive natural grass. HOAs are restricted by California Civil Code Section 4735 from prohibiting water-efficient landscaping including artificial turf. Cal Water (California Water Service), which serves San Mateo, may offer rebates for replacing natural turf. Installation generally does not require a building permit for residential properties. Proper drainage must be maintained beneath the artificial turf to prevent standing water. The city's MWELO requirements for new landscapes over 500 square feet encourage low-water landscaping alternatives including artificial turf.

Violations & Fines

No violations for installing artificial turf. Poor drainage causing runoff issues may be cited. HOA restrictions violating state law are void.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I install artificial turf in San Mateo?

Yes. State law prevents the city or your HOA from requiring natural grass. Proper drainage must be maintained.

Are there rebates available?

Cal Water (California Water Service), which serves San Mateo, may offer turf replacement rebates. Check their current programs.

Can my HOA prohibit artificial turf?

No. California Civil Code Section 4735 prevents HOAs from banning water-efficient landscaping including artificial turf.

Sources & Official References

[1]CA Gov Code §65595
[2]Cal Water Service

Other rules in San Mateo

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All San Mateo rules

How San Mateo compares: Most Artificial Turf-Friendly Cities·California rules heatmap·Compare San Mateo to another location·View the California landscaping rules overview

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Artificial Turf in Nearby Cities

How other cities in San Mateo County handle artificial turf.

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