Pasadena staff to update code to implement state ban on irrigating nonfunctional turf

Pasadena Water and Power presented an update to the Municipal Services Committee on implementing Assembly Bill 1572, which requires water suppliers to prohibit potable irrigation of nonfunctional turf on commercial, industrial, institutional properties and homeowners association common areas. Jessica Hernandez, senior customer program analyst for water conservation at Pasadena Water and Power, said the law "requires water suppliers to revise their policies and ordinances and communicate with customers by 01/01/2027," and staff recommended updating the city's water-waste ordinance to align with the state mandate.

Hernandez outlined exemptions in the legislation, noting the ban does not apply to single-family homes or multifamily buildings unless the property is an HOA common area, and that sports fields, cemeteries, public parks, and health-and-safety watering remain allowed. She also explained that trees and perennial non-turf plantings inside nonfunctional turf areas are exempt to protect urban forestry. On implementation and enforcement, Hernandez said PWP plans to "lead with outreach and education until further guidance is released by the State Water Resources Control Board," while retaining enforcement authority "as needed" for extreme drought situations. The committee voted to approve the staff report updating the ordinance; Council member Hampton moved the motion and Council member Cole seconded it, with the motion carried without opposition.