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Council advances first reading allowing limited artificial turf in nonresidential landscaping
Summary
Council approved first reading of an ordinance to permit artificial turf on up to 10% of required landscaped area in nonresidential districts (variance to 15% possible via Forestry Committee). Staff emphasized permeable, high‑quality turf standards to address drainage and microplastic concerns.
The Aberdeen City Council voted in favor of the first reading of an amendment to the landscaping code (referred to in packet materials as ordinance '26 0 2 01') that would allow the use of artificial turf on a limited basis in nonresidential districts.
Council member Ron (presentation) described the ordinance as a compromise that recognizes the value of living plants while allowing artificial turf in particular, constrained planting areas. “What we put together is an amendment to the landscape standards that number 1 allows for artificial turf,” he said, adding that staff found only one other city in the state that specifically allows turf by ordinance.
City forester Aaron (speaking in his official capacity) told the council 10% seemed “a good compromise,” saying that artificial turf could make sense in narrow planting strips, next to parking lots where salt prevents healthy grass growth, or other challenging locations. Aaron added, “I would much more prefer to see live plants instead of plastic,” but supported the compromise as a practical accommodation.
The ordinance would limit artificial turf to nonresidential districts, establish design, installation and maintenance standards, and provide an appeals path to the Forestry Committee; the committee could grant a variance up to 15%, and any further appeals would go to the city council. Staff clarified the ordinance would not retroactively apply to work that did not trigger the landscape ordinance and that smaller projects that do not trigger landscape standards would still not be scrutinized under this change.
Council members asked about permeability and environmental impacts; Aaron said the ordinance specifies higher‑quality, permeable turf to help with drainage and reduce the risk of microplastics entering stormwater. One council member asked whether local retailers could supply the specified turf; staff said the material would likely require special order and suggested providing a one‑page handout with vendor links and specification guidance.
Councilmember (transcript record) Talmadge and others praised the work across departments and the appeal process. After discussion, a motion to approve first reading passed on a roll call vote with ayes recorded by council members present; the mayor declared the motion carries.
Because this vote was a first reading, the ordinance will return for a subsequent reading before final adoption.
