Walton County, FL Water Use Rules: Turf Replacement Rebates (2026)

06 declares Xeriscaping 'an essential part of water conservation planning and regulation in Walton County' and requires it be built into any approved landscape plan; the code defines xeriscaping as quality landscapes that conserve water, protect the environment, are adapted to local conditions, and use drought-tolerant appropriate plants, with core principles listed as planning and design, appropriate plant choice, soil analysis (which may include solid waste compost), functional use of turf, efficient irrigation, re-use of water, appropriate use of mulches, and proper maintenance. Three operative rules follow the definition.

First, wherever a reclaimed-water system is already in place and available, users must access and use it rather than draw on potable supply for irrigation. Second, plant material not on the county's Approved Plant List may still be used if it appears in the current edition of Waterwise Florida Landscapes, provided the landscape plan notes that source. Third, every automatic irrigation system must carry a moisture sensor or rain shut-off switch that overrides watering cycles once adequate rainfall has occurred, and trees, shrubs, and groundcover must be irrigated with low-volume emitters or targeted irrigation to keep water from spraying onto pavement and other impervious surfaces.

01(B) exempts a single-family home or duplex used as a residence, so the rule reaches new commercial, multifamily, and subdivision landscaping rather than mandating replacement of an existing homeowner's lawn.