How Malagon Helps Properties Stay Compliant With AB 1572

Understanding AB 1572: What California’s New Turf Law Means for Your Property

Across California, landscapes are entering a new era of water responsibility. With the implementation of AB 1572, property owners, HOAs, and commercial facilities will soon be required to eliminate the use of potable drinking water on nonfunctional turf.

For many properties throughout the Bay Area, this means that traditional decorative lawns will need to be redesigned and replaced with water-efficient landscapes before upcoming compliance deadlines.

At Malagon Legacy Landscaping, we are helping property managers and communities navigate this transition smoothly by designing landscapes that are both regulation-compliant and visually elevated.

What Is AB 1572?

AB 1572 is California’s Nonfunctional Turf Irrigation Law, enacted to address long-term water scarcity across the state.

The legislation prohibits the use of potable water (drinking water) to irrigate turf that serves no practical purpose.

In simple terms, if a grass area is purely decorative and not actively used, it will no longer be allowed to be irrigated with drinking water once the law takes effect.

The goal is to significantly reduce water waste while encouraging more climate-appropriate landscapes that better suit California’s environment.

What Counts as Nonfunctional Turf?

The law specifically targets turf areas that exist for appearance rather than use.

Common examples include:

• Decorative lawns around commercial buildings.

•Grass along streets or parking lots.

• Landscape medians.

• Unused lawn areas in corporate campuses.

• HOA common areas where turf is not used for recreation.

These areas often consume large amounts of irrigation water while providing little functional value.

What Turf Areas Are Still Allowed?

Not all turf is being eliminated.

Grass areas that serve an active purpose are still permitted.

Examples of functional turf include:

• Sports fields.

• Parks and playgrounds.

• Community gathering areas.

• Recreation lawns.

• Cemeteries.

The key factor regulators look for is human activity and use. If people regularly walk, play, or gather on the grass, it is generally considered functional.

AB 1572 Compliance Deadlines

The law will be implemented in phases depending on the type of property.

January 1, 2027: State government properties and many public facilities must stop irrigating nonfunctional turf with potable water.

January 1, 2028: Commercial, industrial, and institutional properties must comply.This includes office parks, retail centers, hotels, hospitals, and similar facilities.

January 1, 2029: HOAs and common interest developments must eliminate potable water irrigation of nonfunctional turf in shared areas.

2030 and beyond: Properties will be required to certify compliance periodically.

Planning ahead is critical, especially for HOAs and commercial properties where landscape renovations may require board approval, budgeting, and phased implementation.

How Malagon Legacy Landscaping Helps Properties Prepare

Transitioning landscapes to comply with AB 1572 requires more than simply removing grass. Successful projects combine thoughtful design, water management, and long-term maintenance planning.

Our team works closely with property managers, HOA boards, and commercial clients to ensure landscapes remain beautiful, functional, and compliant.

1. Property Assessment & Turf Analysis

Our process begins with a detailed site review where we identify:

• Areas classified as nonfunctional turf.

• Existing irrigation infrastructure.

• Sun exposure and soil conditions.

• Drainage considerations.

• Opportunities for landscape improvements.

This evaluation helps determine which areas must be converted while preserving functional spaces when appropriate.

2. Sustainable Landscape Design

Once turf areas are identified, we develop customized landscape solutions tailored to the property.

Design elements may include:

Drought-tolerant plant palettes: California-appropriate plants that thrive with minimal irrigation.

Native and pollinator-friendly species: Supporting local ecosystems while reducing water demand.

Decorative stone and mulch areas: Clean, modern alternatives that reduce maintenance.

Hardscape features: Pathways, seating areas, and landscape accents that add usability.

Efficient irrigation systems: Smart controllers, drip irrigation, and upgraded water management.

Our goal is to create landscapes that are both sustainable and visually appealing, ensuring the property maintains strong curb appeal.

3. Professional Turf Conversion & Installation

Malagon Legacy Landscaping manages the entire installation process, including:

• Turf demolition and debris removal.

• Soil preparation and grading.

• Installation of irrigation upgrades.

• Plant installation and groundcover placement.

• Decorative rock or mulch installation.

• Hardscape construction where applicable.

All work is completed following industry standards and safety protocols, minimizing disruption to residents, tenants, and visitors.

4. Ongoing Landscape Maintenance

After installation, proper maintenance ensures the landscape continues to thrive.

Our maintenance services include:

• Irrigation system monitoring and adjustments.

• Seasonal plant care and pruning.

• Weed prevention and soil health management.

• Landscape inspections and reporting.

For HOAs and commercial properties, we also assist with documentation needed for future compliance verification.

Benefits of Transitioning Away from Decorative Turf

Although AB 1572 introduces regulatory requirements, the shift toward sustainable landscaping provides significant long-term advantages.

Water Savings: Many converted landscapes reduce irrigation usage by 50–70%.

Lower Maintenance Costs: Reduced mowing, fertilization, and turf repairs.

Improved Landscape Appearance: Modern designs with varied textures, colors, and plant life.

Environmental Responsibility: Demonstrates leadership in water conservation.

Increased Property Value: Water-efficient landscapes are becoming the new standard across California.

Preparing Your Property Early Matters

Many HOA communities and commercial properties will need time for:

• Board approvals.

• Budget planning.

• Design development.

• Contractor scheduling.

Starting early allows property owners to avoid rushed projects and ensure the highest quality landscape solutions.

Partner With Malagon Legacy Landscaping

At Malagon Legacy Landscaping, we specialize in helping Bay Area properties transition to sustainable landscapes that meet evolving water regulations while enhancing overall property aesthetics.

Our team provides a full range of services including:

• Landscape maintenance.

• Landscape construction.

• Irrigation and water management.

• Turf conversion projects.

• HOA landscape enhancements.

• Property improvement solutions.

Our mission is simple:

Transforming landscapes, nurturing nature, and protecting the planet for future generations.

If your property may be affected by AB 1572, we would be happy to evaluate your site and discuss potential solutions.

Early planning ensures a smooth transition and allows us to design landscapes that are both compliant and exceptional.