Start with a defensible HOA decision
Identify functional recreational lawns versus ornamental areas. Walk the property with the manager, document regular resident use and classify which areas merit conversion consideration. California AB 1572 restricts irrigation of nonfunctional turf with potable water on HOA common areas starting January 1, 2029, with exceptions.
The law does not require indiscriminate removal of all landscaping; the decision should preserve usable community space and landscape appearance.
What the board should request from a contractor
- A map of candidate conversion zones and measured square footage.
- A landscape concept including plant palette, irrigation changes and water infiltration.
- A schedule that reserves rebates before demolition.
- A phased construction estimate and maintenance implications.
- A written record of utility-provider eligibility assumptions and actual reservation status.
Typical eligibility and design requirements
- Keep existing grass in place until the program issues authorization or a reservation; starting first can make the project ineligible.
- Confirm the property is served by a participating water agency and meets the commercial customer classification.
- Commercial SoCal Water$mart projects generally require at least 250 square feet, with a limited exception where the entire site contains less turf.
- Use qualifying climate-appropriate plantings, including at least three plants per 100 square feet of converted area under the referenced program.
- Include permeable landscaping, a stormwater capture or infiltration feature and approved irrigation modification.
- Synthetic turf is not eligible under the referenced Metropolitan program.
- Retain photographs, plans, invoices, reservation letters and other documents for inspection and final claim.
These are program-specific examples, not a promise of eligibility. Always follow the current written terms of the water provider.
From site walk to rebate completion
- Confirm water provider
Match the service address and water account to the correct district and eligibility portal.
- Survey the turf
Measure actual existing eligible turf, map trees, irrigation zones, drainage and areas residents use.
- Develop a conceptual conversion
Choose climate-appropriate plants, irrigation changes, infiltration features and maintenance requirements.
- Submit application before removal
Follow the water agency preapproval, inspection, photo and reservation process.
- Install according to approval
Document changes and keep receipts, dated photos and required plant counts.
- Request final verification
Submit the completion packet and confirm rebate payment and any continuing landscape requirements.
Frequently asked questions
Will the law eliminate recreational HOA grass?
Not categorically. AB 1572 focuses on nonfunctional turf, and functional areas and exceptions must be evaluated separately.
Who applies for the rebate?
The property owner, authorized account holder or representative follows the specific water agency authorization process.
Ask Nature Care to review your property
For HOA common areas, apartment communities, office parks and managed commercial sites in Orange County and Greater Los Angeles.
Official programs and authoritative sources
- California State Water Board: AB 1572
- SoCal Water$mart: commercial turf replacement eligibility
- Municipal Water District of Orange County turf rebate information
Reviewed November 13, 2026. Rebate availability, program terms, regulations and local requirements can change; verify current requirements before approval or construction.