• Cost Considerations: While recycled water can be cost- effective in the long run compared to potable water, there are initial costs associated with retrofitting irrigation systems, installing separate distribution infrastructure, and ongoing monitoring and maintenance. These upfront expenses may pose challenges


for some landscape


projects, particularly for smaller-scale or budget- constrained initiatives.


INCENTIVES


• SoCal Water$mart Program: Take advantage of rebates provided by the SoCal Water$mart


program, which


offers financial incentives for implementing water-saving measures


like replacing grass with drought-tolerant


plants, smart irrigation, planting trees and spray to drip conversions. These rebates help mitigate the expenses associated with landscaping upgrades, making water-efficient practices more feasible for Homeowners Associations


• Water Agency local water agencies


Incentives: Explore rebates offered by to promote water-efficient


landscaping, including incentives for turf removal and installing drip irrigation systems. Many agencies provide these rebates to encourage both residents and businesses to minimize water consumption.


CALL TO ACTION


The opportunity we face is twofold: preparing our communities for future drought regulations while maintaining beautiful landscapes. It


without compromising on sustainability and water efficiency? The answer is “Yes,” but it must be done inclusively and strategically. People don’t like change and they especially don’t like it when an HOA changes the surroundings of their most valuable asset without communication.


The future holds promise for change, as history consistently shows. Just as we prepare for lean times during abundance, so too must we ready ourselves for inevitable droughts in Southern California. By taking proactive steps now, we can avoid severe restrictions imposed from Sacramento. It begins with each individual: listen, strategize, implement small-scale initiatives, share findings, budget wisely, and take action. Together, we can secure a more resilient future for our communities.


—Since 2008, Matt Davenport has served as the Chief Encouragement Officer for Monarch Environmental. Monarch is an environmental consulting company that specializes in contract management for large commercial landscapes, project management, arborist reports, biology and water management.


is possible to achieve aesthetic enjoyment


What is Non-Functional Turf (NFT)?


Non-Functional Turf (NFT) refers to grass that is decorative and not regularly used for recreation, civic, or community activities. In October 2023, California passed Assembly Bill 1572, which aims to reduce the use of drinkable water for non-essential purposes. Specifically, the law targets the watering of decorative or non-functional grass on commercial, industrial, and institutional (CII) properties, gradually implementing a ban on this practice.


This legislation is part of California’s broader efforts to address water shortages, especially in the face of frequent droughts and a growing population. By limiting the use of potable water on non-functional turf, AB 1572 encourages water conservation and promotes more sustainable landscaping practices. One way to comply with the law is to work with your water provider to bring recycled water to your community. Another option is to take advantage of generous rebates available for turf conversion.


While front yards that consist of an owner’s separate interest are currently exempt from this bill, this may change over time. Homeowner associations are required to comply with this law by 2029. Now is the time to choose a strategy and begin making changes.


OCFA Defensible Space Guidelines


Defensible space is a critical zone around a home designed to reduce the risk of wildfire damage. This area, which includes the front and back yards, acts as a protective buffer that minimizes the spread of fire to your property. Even native and ornamental plants can ignite during a wildfire, so proper vegetation management is essential.


To establish effective defensible space, it’s crucial to maintain a distance of 100 feet around your home. This involves cutting or mowing annual grasses to a maximum height of four


inches and ensuring all combustible


materials, such as firewood or patio furniture, are located at least 30 feet away from the house. This separation helps slow the spread of fire, giving firefighters a better chance to protect your property.


California law emphasizes the importance of defensible space. As of July 1, 2021, sellers of properties in High or Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones must provide buyers with documentation proving compliance with local vegetation management ordinances. If this documentation isn’t available by the close of escrow, the buyer must agree to bring the property into compliance within a year. This can be a sensitive task because the vegetation out of compliance may be a common area owned by the association. If this is the case, work with your community manager to better understand compliance rules and fire zone requirements.


www.caioc.org 19


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