Assembly Bill 1572 - Nonfunctional Turf
Background
Assembly Bill (AB) 1572 is a California law signed in October 2023 to advance long-term water conservation and ensure potable (drinking) water is used efficiently. The law limits the use of potable water to irrigate nonfunctional turf—grass that is primarily decorative and not regularly used for recreation, sports, or community activities—at many commercial, industrial, and institutional (CII) properties, as well as common areas maintained by homeowners’ associations (HOAs).
As part of California’s broader efforts to improve water supply reliability, strengthen drought resilience, and reduce unnecessary outdoor water use, AB 1572 will be implemented in phases beginning in 2027, with compliance deadlines varying by property type.
West Valley Water District is committed to helping customers understand these requirements and prepare for upcoming changes. Property owners and managers are encouraged to evaluate their landscapes now and consider replacing decorative turf with, water-efficient landscaping options.
To read the full text of AB 1572, visit the California Legislative Information – AB 1572. For implementation guidance, frequently asked questions, compliance timelines, and additional resources, visit NonFunctionalTurfCA.org.
What is Non-functional Turf (NFT)?
Nonfunctional lawn 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.
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
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
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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
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The ban extends to commercial, industrial, and institutional properties, including business parks, hospitals, educational campuses, and similar locations.
- Beginning January 1, 2029
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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)
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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.
We're Here to Help
West Valley Water District is here to help with information, water conservation resources, and available rebate programs.
If you have questions, please contact Daniel Moreno at dmoreno@wvwd.org.
Additional Questions:
- Does this apply to residential properties?
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No. This requirement does not apply to residential properties.
- What if I have a trees in this area?
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AB 1572 allows potable water use when needed to protect the health of trees, perennial non-turf plants, or address an immediate health and safety need.
To protect trees while conserving water:
Use drip irrigation or deep-watering methods. Avoid overhead spray that reaches nonfunctional turf. Add mulch around tree bases to retain moisture and protect roots.
- What can be planted instead of grass?
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Customers are encouraged to replace their grass with a California native garden or other water efficient turf alternatives. For more information and ideas, please visit: www.waterwisegardenplanner.org.
- Enforcement and Penalties
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West Valley Water District is committed to educating customers about the requirements of AB 1572 and will prioritize outreach, public awareness, and compliance assistance. The District's goal is to help property owners understand the new law and successfully transition to water-efficient landscapes.
If voluntary compliance is not achieved, the District may implement enforcement measures as authorized under its adopted policy and applicable state law.
- Compliance
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The State if California required all water purveyors to adopt a Local Regulation, Ordinance of Policy.
View WVWD Ordinance: Ordinance No. 93
- Resources
- Learn more about AB 1572 through CalWEP’s resource page at nonfunctionalturfca.org. Find helpful guides, flyers, and tips for identifying nonfunctional turf on your property.