Statewide “Lose the Lawn” Legislation

California Assembly Bill 1572 was passed into law last year and took effect on January 1, 2024. The bill prohibits the use of potable water for the irrigation of nonfunctional turf located on commercial, industrial, and institutional properties, homeowners’ associations, common-interest developments, and community-service organizations. Residential lawns are exempt. Nonfunctional turf (NFT) is defined as a lawn that is decorative only and not used for gatherings, walkways, or other activities. Street medians are considered NFT, but…