HOAs must stop watering nonfunctional turf by January 1, 2029. At a minimum, compliance can be achieved by simply discontinuing irrigation of affected turf areas. However, the law also presents an opportunity for HOAs to enhance landscapes through vibrant,  low-water use plantings and other sustainable improvements that can reduce long-term maintenance and water costs. Contact your local water provider for help and advice.

This fact sheet  breaks down what counts as nonfunctional turf, what the law requires, and how associations can stay compliant.

Nonfunctional turf refers to irrigated lawn that is ornamental and not regularly used for recreation or public gatherings. If the landscaper is the only person who ever walks on the lawn, it’s likely nonfunctional.

Some examples include:

• Decorative lawn along sidewalks, building edges, or fences
• Unused patches near signage or building entries
• Lawn in medians, roundabouts, parking lots, or entry signage zones
• Sloped lawn areas

Check for nonfunctional turf

Preparation comes down to a few key steps: identifying areas with nonfunctional turf, mapping out your nonfunctional lawn areas, designing a water-wise landscape that protects existing trees, securing local water district rebates, and upgrading your irrigation system for a fall planting.

This flyer walks you through the law, penalties and practical steps for transforming decorative lawns into beautiful, water-wise landscapes that boost curb appeal and save resources.

You can transform nonfunctional turf into a variety of beautiful, climate-ready landscapes tailored to your property's needs. Creative options include low-maintenance groundcovers that mimic the look of a traditional lawn, shaded water-wise retreats, sunny pollinator-friendly gardens, or native shrubs that serve as living privacy screens.

View this guide for inspiring design ideas to help you transform lawns with vibrant, water-wise plants.