Overview
In October 2023, the State of California enacted Assembly Bill 1572 (AB 1572), which restricts the use of potable water to irrigate non-functional turf on certain properties. This law supports statewide water efficiency efforts and reflects California’s continued response to long-term drought conditions and limited water supplies.
AB 1572 applies to commercial, industrial, and institutional properties, including homeowner association common areas. Single-family residential lawns are not subject to this prohibition.
As required by the legislation, Mission Springs Water District will update local regulations, ordinances, or policies and communicate these changes to customers by January 1, 2027.
What Is Non-Functional Turf?
Non-functional turf is grass that serves a purely decorative purpose and is not used for recreation or other functional activities.
Examples include:
- Turf along street medians or parkways
- Decorative grass outside commercial buildings or office complexes
- Grass in business parks or landscaped areas that are not accessible or usable
The following turf areas are exempt from AB 1572:
- Sports fields and athletic facilities
- Picnic areas, parks, and other active recreational spaces
- Cemeteries
- Turf irrigated with nonpotable or recycled water
Residential landscapes are exempt from the requirements of this law.
Compliance Schedule by Property Type
The potable water restriction will be implemented in phases based on property ownership and use:
- January 1, 2027: State and local government properties (not located within a disadvantaged community)
- January 1, 2028: Commercial, industrial, and institutional properties
- January 1, 2029: Homeowner association common areas, mobile home parks, and retirement communities
- January 1, 2031: State and local government properties* (located within a disadvantaged community)
*Note: As of January 2, 2026, all areas within the Mission Springs Water District service area are classified as disadvantaged communities based on the State of California DAC Mapping Tool, which uses data from the 2019–2023 American Community Survey.
Why This Law Was Adopted
California’s water supplies continue to face pressure from prolonged drought, climate variability, and increasing demand. During the 2020–2022 drought, the Governor issued Executive Order N-7-22, which temporarily prohibited the use of potable water on non-functional turf as an emergency conservation measure.
AB 1572 makes this restriction permanent by establishing a consistent statewide standard. Eliminating non-functional turf irrigation is one of the most effective ways to reduce outdoor water waste without affecting essential or recreational uses.
In arid regions like Desert Hot Springs, transitioning to climate-appropriate landscaping helps ensure long-term water reliability for residents, businesses, and critical community services.
Water Conservation Is a Shared Responsibility
For decades, MSWD customers have played an important role in improving water efficiency through conservation programs, rebates, and responsible water use. These collective efforts have helped reduce demand and strengthen local water supply resilience.
Reducing non-functional turf and replacing it with drought-tolerant or desert-appropriate landscaping is a key part of this continued progress. Every reduction in unnecessary outdoor water use helps protect Desert Hot Springs’ water resources for future generations.
What to Expect Next
MSWD will continue working to align District policies with AB 1572 and will provide advance notice to affected customers. Future communications will include information on:
- Updated District regulations
- Compliance timelines
- Available resources and guidance
- Landscaping alternatives and water-efficient practices
Customers with questions about AB 1572 or how it may apply to their property are encouraged to contact Mission Springs Water District directly.