California Statewide Rule
California Bans Potable Irrigation of Non-Functional Turf
Key Facts
- Statute
- AB-1572 Water Code 10608.14
- Full effect
- By 2031
- HOA protection
- Civil Code 4735
- Landscape standard
- MWELO Gov Code 65591
Summary
AB-1572 prohibits using potable water to irrigate non-functional turf at commercial, institutional, and HOA-common areas, accelerating native and low-water landscape conversions statewide.
(a) The use of potable water for the irrigation of nonfunctional turf located on commercial, industrial, and institutional properties, other than a cemetery, and on properties of homeowners' associations, common interest developments, and community service organizations or similar entities is prohibited as of the following dates: (1) All properties owned by the Department of General Services, beginning January 1, 2027. (2) All properties owned by local governments, local or regional public agencies, and public water systems, except those specified in paragraph (5), beginning January 1, 2027.
Full Breakdown
Water Code section 10608.14, added by AB 1572 (2023), phases in a ban on potable water irrigation of non-functional turf on commercial, industrial, institutional, and HOA-controlled common areas, taking full effect by 2031. The Model Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance (Gov Code 65591 et seq.) sets statewide minimum efficiency for new landscapes and requires climate-appropriate plant palettes. Civil Code section 4735 prevents HOAs from forbidding low-water or California-native landscaping.
Violations & Penalties
State Water Board may enforce against suppliers; HOA penalties for native plantings are unenforceable under Civil Code 4735.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can my HOA require a green lawn?
Does this ban apply to single-family homes?
Sources
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