Lawns are typically the biggest water user in the landscape. Limit functional turf areas where people play to no more than 25% of your total landscaped area.
Certification Requirement
A maximum of 25% of total irrigated area is specified as functional turf, with sports or multiple use fields exempted.
A lawn that is only planted for looks is not-functional. Functional turf is an area of turf grass or lawn that is used regularly for human recreational purposes or critical business operations (eg: wedding/event facilities, day care centers, pre-schools, sports fields, parks, etc.).
Helpful Resources:
Learn how to lose your lawn with sheet mulching
Learn how to redesign your lawn with lawn alternatives and low water use plants
for Santa Cruz County and Monterey County
While you are planning your turf removal project, consider the possibilities to harvest rainwater in the landscape design.
Find out if you qualify for turf replacement rebates from your local water utility!
