Non-Functional Turf (NFT)
In 2023, AB 1572 passed prohibiting the use of potable (drinking) water to irrigate non-functional turf grass located on commercial, industrial, and institutional properties (CII). The legislation will replace a temporary non-functional turf irrigation ban enacted during the last drought and will be phased in beginning Jan. 1, 2027.
What is non-functional and functional turf?
Non-functional turf is ornamental grass not used for recreation, civic and/or other community events. It includes turf irrigated for aesthetics such as street medians and parking lots.
Functional turf can include sports fields, parks, or other turf used for recreation, such as golf courses, playgrounds, picnic grounds, or pet exercise areas. Turf irrigated with recycled water is exempt from the ban.
What properties are affected?
The irrigation ban applies to CII properties including those below, but not limited to:
- City and county land
- Educational institutions
- Government, public agency buildings
- Grocery and retail stores
- Homeowner association owned common areas
- Hospitals
- Office, warehouse, and industrial buildings
- Religious institutions
- Restaurants
The non-functional ban does not apply to residential properties.
CVWD will be contacting impacted customers mid-2026. To learn more visit the NFT website.
Rebates for replacing turf with drought tolerant landscaping are available here.