Helping So. California Transition to Sustainable Landscapes

Santa Margarita Water District (SMWD) commends the Metropolitan Water District of Southern California (MWD) for launching a bold, forward-thinking turf rebate program aimed at transforming the way commercial and public landscapes are designed and maintained in Southern California.

In a recent Los Angeles Times article, MWD announced a record-high rebate of $7 per square foot for qualifying commercial, institutional, and public entities that replace nonfunctional turf with sustainable, drought-tolerant landscaping. This effort is a direct response to California's AB 1572, a state law phasing in restrictions on the use of potable (drinkable) water to irrigate nonfunctional lawns, beginning January 1, 2027 for public entities and January 1, 2028 for commercial users.

What Is "Nonfunctional Turf"?
Nonfunctional turf refers to lawns that serve no recreational or community purpose - such as grass around parking lots, building entrances, and medians. If you're only standing on the grass to mow it, it likely qualifies as nonfunctional.

Under AB 1572, the irrigation of such areas with potable (drinking) water will no longer be permitted, signaling a significant shift in how outdoor spaces are managed across California.

Why This Matters
MWD estimates there are more than 20,000 acres of nonfunctional commercial and institutional turf in Southern California. Simply turning off irrigation could result in large patches of brown, unused grass - but the new rebate program encourages a proactive, sustainable, and visually appealing alternative.

The goal? To encourage public institutions, schools, and businesses to start replacing this turf now - not just to comply with the law, but to enhance environmental and community benefits.

Rebate Details

• Amount: $7 per square foot of nonfunctional turf removed
• Eligible Entities: Commercial properties, schools, public institutions

Requirements:

• Must install water-efficient landscaping (e.g., native or drought-tolerant plants)
• Include stormwater retention features like bioswales or dry stream beds
• At least three water-efficient plants per 100 square feet
• No overhead irrigation or non-permeable hardscapes in new design

Environmental Benefits
This initiative goes beyond water savings. It aims to:

• Promote biodiversity by encouraging pollinator-friendly plants
• Improve local air quality and reduce urban heat islands
• Capture and retain rainwater with smart landscape design
• Enhance the visual appeal of commercial and public properties
• Support sustainable landscaping jobs and training through partners like the Theodore Payne Foundation

Looking Ahead
With financial support from the California Department of Water Resources ($30 million) and the federal Bureau of Reclamation ($96 million), this program is a powerful investment in California's water future.

Santa Margarita Water District is proud to partner with MWD in helping our communities prepare for upcoming regulations while improving the beauty and sustainability of our region.

We encourage all local commercial and institutional property owners to explore this rebate opportunity and start planning now.

Learn more about the turf replacement program at: bewaterwise.com

For questions or local assistance, contact SMWD's Water Efficiency Team at (949) 459-6593 or [email protected].

Sources:
SoCal businesses and public institutions can get $7 per square foot to ditch their lawns, Los Angeles Times, September 2025
Metropolitan Water District of Southern California - Turf Replacement Program