San Diego, CA Water Use Rules: Turf Replacement Rebates (2026)
Key Facts
- Applies to
- commercial, industrial, institutional turf
- Prohibits
- potable water on non-functional turf
- Exempt
- functional turf, recycled-water irrigation
- Tied to
- Cal. Water Code § 10608.14
Summary
San Diego prohibits commercial, industrial, and institutional properties from using potable water to irrigate non-functional (purely ornamental) turf, following state timelines, unless the turf is watered with recycled water or qualifies as functional turf.
(a) Using potable water for the irrigation of non-functional turf for commercial, industrial, and institutional properties per timelines and requirements set forth in California Water Code section 10608.14, as may be amended.
Section 67.3803(a) shall not apply to turf irrigated with recycled water or to functional turf.
(b) Applying potable water to outdoor landscapes in a manner that causes irrigation runoff or uncorrected leaks such that water flows onto adjacent property, non-irrigated areas, private and public walkways, roadways, parking lots, or structures.
(c) Failing to repair or stop water leaks upon discovery or within 72 hours of notification by the City of San Diego.
(d) Washing down sidewalks, driveways, parking areas, tennis courts, or other paved areas without using a power washer or a hose with a shutoff nozzle. Washing any paved areas is only allowed to alleviate immediate safety or sanitation hazards. Wash water shall be collected and prevented from leaving the property and entering the municipal separate storm sewer system under
Full Breakdown
San Diego Municipal Code § 67.3803(a) bars commercial, industrial, and institutional properties from using potable water to irrigate non-functional turf -- grass that serves no active recreational or civic function -- on the timelines and requirements set in California Water Code § 10608.14. The prohibition sits inside the city's broader water waste ordinance (Division 38) and effectively forces affected properties to remove or replace non-functional lawns rather than keep watering them with tap water. The ban does not apply to turf irrigated with recycled water or to turf classified as functional, such as sports fields or park lawns used for recreation.
Violations & Fines
Irrigating non-functional turf with potable water in violation of § 67.3803(a) is an unlawful water waste act under Division 38, carrying criminal, civil, and administrative penalties under Chapter 1, plus possible flow restriction or service shutoff for willful violators (SDMC § 67.3807).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a San Diego business water ornamental turf with tap water?
Does the turf-watering ban apply to a residential front lawn?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in San Diego
California rules heatmap·Compare San Diego to another location·View the California water use rules overview
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Turf Replacement Rebates in Nearby Cities
How other cities in San Diego County handle turf replacement rebates.