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Staff: Desert Water Agency’s Ordinance 80 bars potable watering of nonfunctional turf but does not itself force conversion
Summary
City staff clarified that DWA Ordinance 80 prohibits watering nonfunctional turf with potable water and that government properties must self‑certify by June 30; commercial and HOA compliance dates begin in 2028–2029, and DWA rebate programs exist to support conversions.
Staff clarified the city’s interaction with Desert Water Agency (DWA) Ordinance 80 and related state requirements, stressing that the ordinance prohibits the use of potable water to irrigate nonfunctional turf but does not, by itself, require immediate conversion of turf to drought‑tolerant landscaping.
Staff explained that city government properties must submit self‑certification forms by June 30 and that the operational change to stop potable watering on affected sites is scheduled for Jan. 1, 2027. Commercial, industrial and institutional properties will be subject to the regulations beginning Jan. 1, 2028, and homeowners’ associations and common‑interest developments by Jan. 1, 2029. Staff also noted AB 1572 and state water‑conservation policy as drivers of the local rule implementation.
Commissioners raised concerns that some property owners assume Ordinance 80 equates to an immediate mandate to convert turf and that HOAs and hybrid common‑area properties might fall into ambiguity. Staff said DWA staff (referred to as "Clark" in the meeting) told them the ordinance enforces restrictions on potable watering and that rebate programs exist to help properties convert turf if owners choose that route.
Staff emphasized the need to balance enforcement with community concerns about blight and tree health (for example, irrigating trees when turf irrigation is removed). The commission discussed outreach, education and the city’s coordination with DWA to clarify timelines and funding options for residents and property managers.
No regulatory action was taken by the commission; staff will continue coordination with DWA and share guidance with the public.
