Nonfunctional Turf (NFT)

Coming Statewide Changes

In 2023, California enacted Assembly Bill (AB) 1572 to reduce the wasteful use of potable (drinking) water and support state policies on water conservation and climate change. The law prohibits using potable water to irrigate nonfunctional turf (NFT) on commercial, industrial, and institutional (CII) properties and common landscape areas of Homeowners Associations (HOAs) starting in 2027. 

The law does not ban turf—it prohibits using potable water on nonfunctional turf.  Functional turf may still be irrigated with potable water, and nonfunctional turf may still be irrigated with recycled water.

The new law will be phased in over five years, starting in 2027, based on the type of property. The deadlines below are the compliance dates, which means the applicable property must stop irrigating nonfunctional turf with potable water by that date may not irrigate with potable water in the future.  This is a permanent prohibition.

While Sacramento County has not yet adopted local policies or enforcement requirements, we are working closely with state agencies and regional partners to prepare for implementation and support our customers through this transition.

Who Does This Apply To?

The statewide regulation applies to:

  • Commercial properties (offices, retail, restaurants, etc.)
  • Industrial properties
  • Institutional properties (schools, hospitals, government facilities)
  • Common areas of Homeowners Associations (HOAs)

What is Nonfunctional Turf?

Nonfunctional turf is grass that is primarily decorative and not regularly used for recreation or community activities.

Common examples include:

  • Grass along sidewalks, buildings, and fences
  • Landscaping in parking lots, medians, or entryways
  • Decorative lawns at commercial buildings
  • Unused grassy areas that are rarely walked on

What is considered functional turf?

Functional turf includes grass that is actively used for:

  • Parks, playgrounds, and sports fields
  • Schoolyards or gathering areas
  • Employee break areas
  • Community recreation spaces

Important:

  • The regulation does NOT apply to residential lawns.

Implementation Timeline

The law will be phased in over several years:

  • January 1, 2027 – Public and government-owned properties
  • January 1, 2028 – Commercial, industrial, and institutional properties
  • January 1, 2029 – HOA common areas
  • January 1, 2031 – Government/public water system properties in disadvantaged communities
     

What This Means for Sacramento County Customers

Although local implementation details are still being developed, customers can begin preparing now by:

  • Identifying areas of nonfunctional turf on their property
  • Evaluating opportunities for water-efficient landscaping
  • Coordinating with landscape managers or property owners
  • Exploring available rebate and conservation programs    

Sacramento County will provide updates as policies, timelines, and compliance pathways are finalized.

Benefits of Transitioning Away from Nonfunctional Turf:

  • Reduces unnecessary water use
  • Helps prepare for drought and water supply uncertainty
  • Lowers long-term irrigation costs
  • Supports climate-resilient landscapes
  • Improves sustainability of local water systems 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

No. The statewide regulation does not apply to residential properties, including single-family homes. 

If the turf is used for activities like sports, play, or gatherings, it is considered functional turf and is generally allowed.

Yes. Turf irrigated with recycled or non-potable water may be allowed under the regulation. 

Yes. Common exemptions include:

  • Parks and sports fields
  • Cemeteries
  • Areas used for recreation or community events
  • Turf necessary to support trees or other plantings 

The State defines nonfunctional turf, but local agencies (like Sacramento County and water suppliers) will interpret and implement the requirements locally. 

State requirements may include compliance certifications and enforcement mechanisms. Sacramento County will provide more information once local policies are established.

You can start by:

  • Reviewing your landscape for decorative grass
  • Planning for future conversion projects
  • Taking advantage of conservation programs and rebates 

Resources and Programs

 

Learn More: Statewide & Regional Resources

Be Water Smart Program Webinars:

commercial building and landscape