Wichita, KS Landscaping Rules: Artificial Turf (2026)

Wichita Unified Zoning Code does not specifically regulate synthetic turf in single-family residential districts, and homeowners may install it in front, side, and rear yards. Front-yard installations should still meet the residential landscape standard, which generally requires a portion of the front yard to remain pervious or planted to support tree canopy and stormwater infiltration. Total impervious lot coverage caps in most R-zones range from 40 to 50 percent, and a properly drained turf system over crushed stone is typically considered semi-pervious for this calculation. No standalone permit is required to install artificial turf, but if the project includes regrading, retaining walls over 4 feet, or alterations to drainage patterns affecting neighbors, a stormwater or building permit may apply. HOAs in newer Wichita subdivisions often have explicit rules permitting or prohibiting synthetic turf, so check covenants. The Wichita Water Utilities does not currently offer a synthetic turf rebate, instead encouraging native and drought-tolerant plantings as the preferred conservation approach. Pet owners should select infill rated for animal use and rinse periodically to avoid odor complaints under the nuisance code.