SCV Water is Here to Help

SCV Water will share implementation and enforcement details as they become available. SCV Water is committed to helping customers understand the requirements and achieve compliance. This webpage provides information and resources to help customers comply with AB 1572.

We want to know more about your property and water efficiency goals so that we can learn how to best serve you! Our goal is to partner with our customers by prioritizing education, engagement, and program support.

Frequently Asked Questions 

What is AB 1572?

AB 1527 prohibits the use of potable water for the irrigation of non-functional turf (NFT) located on commercial, industrial, municipal, institutional, and common interest developments (including homeowners associations; HOA). It requires property owners (identified above) to certify their compliance with these provisions. It also authorizes urban water suppliers, such as SCV Water, to enforce these provisions.

Who decides if turf is functional or non-functional?

The State Water Resources Control Board (SWRCB) has provided the current definition of NFT, and will provide more detailed definitions as well as certification and compliance forms by January 1, 2025.

What is non-functional turf (NFT)?

Non-Functional Turf (NFT) is mowed grass that is decorative and not otherwise used for human recreation purposes. It applies to the turf maintained by SCV Water’s Commercial, Industrial, and Institutional (CII) customers including common areas of homeowners associations as well as common interest developments.

Does NFT apply to residential properties?

No, NFT does not apply to residential properties, school fields, sports fields, and areas regularly used for civic or community events.

When must my property comply with the law (AB 1572)?

Compliance Schedule

AB 1572 took effect January 1, 2024. The schedule below identifies the timeframe for various customer groups to comply with the law.

Customer Groups	Compliance Date
State government properties	January 1, 2027
Commercial, industrial and institutional properties	January 1, 2028
Homeowners association common areas Mobile home parks Retirement communities	January 1, 2029
Local government properties in disadvantaged communities (DAC)	January 1, 2031

How must my property comply with the law (AB 1572)?

Applicable customer groups must permanently discontinue the watering of NFT by specified dates and provide compliance reports to the State Water Resources Control Board on an annual basis.

For a more in-depth look at the ways to comply, review our NFT Smart Practice Guide.

We encourage customers to communicate with your landscape contractor to determine the best course of action for your property.

How can my entity partner with SCV Water?

• Request a meeting with the SCV Water Conservation team by contacting conservation@scvwa.org
• Request a free full irrigation survey with WaterWise by calling 888-987-9473
• Start a Lawn Replacement Program (LRP) Application

Are rebates or incentives available for the removal of NFT?

Yes, SCV Water offers rebates for Lawn Replacement and for high-efficiency irrigation. Visit our Conservation Rebate Portal for more information.

What can be planted instead of grass?

Affected customers are encouraged to replace their grass with water-efficient plants. Visit our Rebates page for Large Landscapes and HOAs to learn more about SCV Water’s Lawn Replacement Program.

Will there be enforcement and/or penalties? If so, who will be responsible?

While SCV Water will prioritize education, awareness and programmatic support of this new law, SCV Water retains the option to enforce the law should a lack of public compliance merit such escalation.  The City of Santa Clarita and Los Angeles County also has the ability to enforce the NFT watering ban.