Frequently Asked Questions

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.

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.

Non-functional turf is decorative grass with no recreational or community use, such as narrow strips along sidewalks, medians, or roadside edges.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Enforcement is handled by local water agencies, including EBMUD. There is also a self-certification component with the State Water Resources Control Board

Visit the project page to learn more and read the full text of the bill.