AB 1572 Non-Functional Turf Law

Danville Begins Non-Functional Turf Replacement Mandated by State Law

Residents may notice browning grass along major roadsides as the Town of Danville begins a program to comply with a new state law that limits the use of potable water for irrigation. In advance of the January 1, 2027 deadline, the Town has started converting turf along streets such as Camino Tassajara and El Capitan Drive into more water-efficient landscaping and ground covers.

The definition of non-functional turf is set by State Assembly Bill 1572, which limits use of potable water irrigation for commercial, industrial, and institutional water users. Examples of non-functional turf to be replaced include grass landscaping strips between sidewalks and streets. In contrast, functional turf includes areas such as parks, sports fields, and other recreational and community gathering spaces, and will not be affected.

The 2027 compliance deadline for public properties will be followed by a 2028 deadline for commercial properties and a 2029 deadline for homeowner’s association property, such as private roadsides managed by the HOA. Private residential landscaping is not affected by this law.

FAQs

Why is the Town of Danville removing turf?: The Town is complying with Assembly Bill 1572, a state law that prohibits the use of potable water to irrigate decorative, or “non-functional,” turf starting in 2027. This helps conserve drinking water and supports long-term drought resilience.
Where will the first projects take place?: Work will begin along Camino Tassajara, first between Tassajara Lane and Sherburne Hills Road, then between Tassajara Lane and Hill Meadow Drive. Turf in these areas will be replaced with drought-tolerant landscaping such as shrubs, mulch, and trees.
What is considered non-functional turf?: Non-functional turf is decorative grass with no recreational or community use, such as narrow strips along sidewalks, medians, or roadside edges.
What turf will remain?: Functional turf — including parks, sports fields, playgrounds, and other community gathering spaces — is exempt from the law and will not be affected. Some turf around trees and bushes will also remain, as long as the irrigation of nearby trees sustains the turf.
How does this affect existing trees?: Trees, shrubs, and other plants are not classified as non-functional turf and are not subject to removal. The Town’s plan ensures that trees in affected areas will continue to receive irrigation to maintain their health and canopy. Some turf surrounding trees will remain as well, being watered by the irrigation for the trees. Protecting Danville’s tree canopy is a priority in all project phases.
Why not use recycled water or artificial turf?: EBMUD does not currently have infrastructure in Danville to deliver recycled water for irrigation. Artificial turf can be incredibly costly and require extensive irrigation removal. Replacement with alternate natural plant material is the most efficient and effective solution.
What about private lawns?: Private residential landscaping is not affected by AB 1572. The law applies to public, commercial, and homeowners’ association-managed areas. The law includes a provision for HOA's to address non-functional turf in common areas by 2029.
Who enforces this law?: Enforcement is handled by local water agencies, including EBMUD. There is also a self-certification component with the State Water Resources Control Board
How can I learn more or provide feedback?: Visit the project page to learn more and read the full text of the bill.

AB 1572 Non-Functional Turf Law

Danville Begins Non-Functional Turf Replacement Mandated by State Law

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