In October 2023, Governor Gavin Newsom signed Assembly Bill 1572 to restrict the use of potable water for irrigating non-functional turf on commercial, industrial, and institutional (CII) properties. Beginning in 2027, business owners, public agencies and other entities will be restricted from using potable water on their decorative grass areas.
These properties governed by this new regulation include government facilities, retail spaces, schools, and common areas within homeowners’ associations. Depending on the type of property, the regulations will be implemented over several years, starting January 1, 2027. The regulations align with the state’s efforts to conserve water, mitigate climate impacts, and encourage sustainable landscaping practices.
Non-Functional Turf: Grass in parking lots, medians, and purely decorative areas.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do the regulations impact residential properties?
No. The regulations only apply to government facilities, retail spaces, schools, and common areas within homeowners’ associations.
What kind of (CII) properties will be affected by the new regulations?
Including, but not limited to:
- City and county-owned property
- Educational institutions
- Government and public agency buildings
- Grocery and retail stores
- HOA-owned properties, including common areas of apartments, condominiums, and townhomes
- Hospitals
- Office, warehouse and industrial buildings
- Religious institutions (Cemeteries are exempt)
- Restaurants
What is Non-Functional Turf?
Non-functional turf is ornamental grass not used for recreational, civic, or community events. It includes turf irrigated solely for aesthetic purposes, such as in street medians and parking lots
Functional turf can include sports fields, parks, playgrounds, golf courses, picnic grounds, and pet exercise areas. The regulation does not affect residential properties.
What is the timeline for the new regulations?
- January 1, 2027: State, local government, and public agency buildings (except for government properties in disadvantaged communities.)
- January 1, 2028: Institutional, commercial, and industrial properties.
- January 1, 2029: HOA common areas and common interest developments.
- January 1, 2031: Properties owned by local governments in disadvantaged communities or when state funding for turf replacement is available.
Is the use of recycled water for watering non-functional turf prohibited?
No, the restriction only prohibits the use of potable water for irrigating non-functional turf.
Can I still irrigate trees in my turf?
Yes, the bill allows for the irrigation of trees within non-functional turf.
Resources and Support
For more information, please contact our customer support team for personalized assistance regarding the new regulations and how they apply to your property.
For 24-hour emergency and customer service, please call: 1-909-394-2272 or 877-933-9533
TTY (hearing impaired).
Email: customerservice@gswater.com
