Tustin, CA Landscaping Rules: Artificial Turf (2026)

The City of Tustin permits artificial turf but sets quality standards so it looks like real, well-maintained grass. Ordinance No. 1398 established the Synthetic Turf Standards (dated July 2015), which apply to residential and commercial owners installing synthetic turf 'in front yards and side yards visible from the adjacent right-of-way.' Per the published Standards: lifelike individual blades must emulate real grass in appearance and color; the material must be cut-pile polyethylene or polypropylene; and the turf must have a minimum pile height and face weight (density) that emulate real grass - the document gives 'a minimum pile height of 1.75 inches and/or a face weight (density) of 60 ounces per square yard' as an example that would comply. Turf 'shall be installed professionally with a proper drainage system and weed barrier' and installed/maintained 'to simulate the appearance of a well-maintained lawn.' Indoor or outdoor plastic or nylon carpet is prohibited, the turf 'shall be combined with natural plant materials to enhance landscape design,' and it must carry a manufacturer's warranty against color fading and pile-height loss. Ongoing maintenance is also enforced through the Property Maintenance chapter: Section 5502(m)(1) requires that 'all synthetic turf material shall be maintained in accordance with the Synthetic Turf Standards and subject to the approval of the Community Development Director.' Installations should be reviewed with the Community Development Department.