Caring for Trees
California’s new lawn watering rules were created to help save potable (drinking) water by phasing out its use for irrigating nonfunctional turf—lawns that serve no recreational or community purpose—at most commercial, industrial, and institutional (CII) properties, including common areas managed by homeowner associations (HOAs). But removing lawn can affect nearby trees—especially if they’re used to regular watering.
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TREE FAQ
What is Nonfunctional Turf (NFT)?
Nonfunctional lawn refers to an irrigated lawn that is purely decorative and not regularly used for recreation or public gatherings. A general rule of thumb is if the landscaper is the only person who ever walks on the lawn, it's likely nonfunctional.
What are the deadlines for compliance?
- January 1, 2027 - Public properties owned or managed by local governments, including public school districts
- January 1, 2028 - Commercial, industrial, and institutional properties
- January 1, 2029 - Common areas managed by homeowner associations, common interest development, and community service organizations
- January 1, 2031 - Public properties in Disadvantaged Communities, contingent upon available state financial assistance or when state funding for turf replacement becomes available.
If my lawn appears to be nonfunctional but has trees, is it considered functional?
No, nonfunctional lawn around trees is still considered nonfunctional, however, there is an exemption that allows for watering to continue around the tree to ensure the health of existing trees and other perennial nonturf plantings. Similarly, planting new trees does not make an area functional lawn. New trees must be placed on separate irrigation systems.