In 2029, a new law will ban watering of “nonfunctional turf” with potable water. … In 2023, the Legislature passed Assembly Bill 1572 and created Water Code Section 10608.14, applicable to properties including common interest developments. This new statute requires various property owners, including HOAs, to either remove nonfunctional turf or begin irrigating it with reclaimed water. HOAs must comply before 2029. Since most HOAs do not have reclaimed water readily available to them without great expense, many HOAs are erroneously assuming they must remove grass areas not regularly used by residents. However, a careful review of the statutes and connected regulations reveals that probably very few — if any — California common interest developments will be affected by this law.

Other water conservation news:

• Las Vegas Review-Journal: More parties could challenge SNWA over ‘nonfunctional grass’ irrigation ban
• KJZZ (Salt Lake City): Morgan County cuts water use, adopts new conservation strategies
• Colorado Springs Gazette (Colo.): Colorado Springs Utilities emphasizes cautious water use, not restrictions