Portland encourages replacing thirsty turf lawns with native plants, ecolawn mixes, and climate-friendly groundcovers through Water Bureau guidance, BES stormwater incentives, and the Backyard Habitat Certification Program.
While Portland does not mandate turf removal, the Water Bureau and BES promote climate-resilient landscapes through public education, the Stormwater Management Manual's vegetation credits, and partnership with the Backyard Habitat Certification Program run by Portland Audubon and Columbia Land Trust. Replacing turf with deep-rooted natives reduces summer irrigation, expands stormwater infiltration, and supports pollinators consistent with the Climate Emergency Declaration. Title 33 generally allows turf removal as a permitted by-right landscape change.
There is no fine for keeping turf or for replacing it; however, removed vegetation that triggers erosion or stormwater impacts can violate Title 10 erosion-control rules and the Stormwater Management Manual.
See how Portland's turf replacement rebates rules stack up against other locations.
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.