Non-Functional Turf Ban (AB 1572)

Beginning January 1, 2027, California law (AB 1572) will prohibit the use of potable (drinking) water to irrigate nonfunctional turf—lawns that do not serve a recreational or community purpose—at most commercial, industrial, and institutional properties.

This requirement applies to existing landscapes and is part of California’s broader effort to promote efficient water use and ensure drinking water is prioritized for essential needs.

Preparing for Upcoming Requirements: 

California is taking a phased approach to implementing AB 1572 to support a smooth transition and help property owners plan ahead.

  • Beginning January 1, 2027
    • Properties owned or leased by the Department of General Services (state government) and other state and local government properties must discontinue the use of potable water on nonfunctional turf.
  • Beginning January 1, 2028
    • The ban extends to commercial, industrial, and institutional properties, including business parks, hospitals, educational campuses, and similar locations
  • Beginning January 1, 2029
    • Common areas of homeowners’ associations (HOAs), common interest developments, and community service organizations or similar entities must comply with the prohibition.
  • Beginning January 1, 2031 (or later)
    • The ban applies to local government-managed properties located in disadvantaged communities (DACs), but only once state funding becomes available to support the transition—a recognition of financial constraints in lower-resource areas

Diablo Water District is here as a resource to help customers understand requirements, explore options, and plan for changes as implementation dates approach.

What is Non-Functional Turf?

Non-functional turf is irrigated lawn that is decorative and not regularly used for recreation or community activities. If the only routine activity is maintenance, it is likely considered non-functional.

Note: This requirement does not apply to cemeteries.

Examples include:

  • Decorative lawn along sidewalks, buildings, or fences.
  • Unused areas near signs or building entrances.
  • Turf in medians, roundabouts, parking lots, or monument areas.
  • Sloped lawn areas.
The image features four scenes: urban streets with greenery, a parked car, and grassy areas alongside roads.
Does this apply to residential properties? 

No. This requirement applies to commercial, industrial, and institutional (CII) properties, including certain HOA common areas. It does not apply to residential properties.

What if I am using recycled water? 

No. This requirement only applies to potable (drinking) water. Using recycled water to irrigate non-functional turf at CII properties is not restricted under this rule.

What if I have trees in this area? 

Trees will need to be irrigated separately from non-functional turf. In most cases, this means having a dedicated irrigation system to ensure trees continue to receive the water they need.

Get more information here.

Not Sure if You Have Non-Functional Turf?

Click here for additional resources to help you determine whether this requirement applies to your property and what steps you may need to take.

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