Beverly Hills Puts Ban on Synthetic Turf in Front Lawns

Categories: Breaking NewsGovernment NewsNews

A vibrant front yard in Beverly Hills promotes sustainability through native plants instead of synthetic turf.

News Summary

The Beverly Hills Planning Commission has unanimously voted to ban synthetic turf installations in front yards in an effort to promote sustainability and water conservation. Existing turf owners will have a 15-year grace period to remove it, while side and backyard synthetic turf will remain permitted. The decision awaits final approval from the City Council after public debates raised concerns from both industry representatives and advocates regarding health risks and landscaping choices.

Beverly Hills Commission Implements Ban on Synthetic Turf in Front Lawns

On May 22, 2023, the Beverly Hills Planning Commission voted unanimously to enact a ban on the installation of synthetic turf in front yards. This decision comes as part of a broader move to promote sustainability and conserve water in the city.

The newly approved ordinance will prohibit any new installations of synthetic turf in front lawns, while allowing current owners a grace period of 15 years to remove their existing turf. However, residents will still have the option to maintain synthetic turf in their side and backyards.

The ordinance received a 3-0 vote from Vice Chair Jeff Wolfe and Commissioners Lou Milkowski and Gary Ross. Chair Terri Kaplan and Commissioner Myra Demeter were not present during the voting. The ordinance is set to proceed to the Beverly Hills City Council for final approval.

Context and Purpose of the Ban

The issue surrounding synthetic turf was initially brought to light during a Commission Study Session held on January 30, 2023, where the commission began discussing potential regulations. A draft ordinance for the ban was subsequently requested. Previously, synthetic turf had been banned in Beverly Hills prior to 2015, although state legislation mandated cities to permit its use due to drought conditions at that time.

However, a state senate bill passed in 2024 reinstated local authority to regulate synthetic grass, allowing Beverly Hills to take action regarding its use. The primary objectives behind the ordinance are to conserve water resources, enhance sustainability, and uphold the aesthetic values of residential neighborhoods.

Public Response

During the meeting, public comments revealed a division of opinion on the ban. Industry representatives expressed concerns about potential job losses related to landscaping. One representative urged the commission to reconsider the ban on the grounds that landscaping choices should remain at the discretion of homeowners. Conversely, advocates for the ban pointed to health risks and environmental concerns associated with synthetic turf, arguing for a more comprehensive ban that includes all types of turf installations.

Implementation and Future Steps

If approved by the City Council, the ordinance will encompass outreach initiatives to inform current synthetic turf permit holders about the removal process. As part of its commitment to promoting California-friendly landscaping, city staff will recommend alternative options that enhance sustainability. These alternatives include the use of native and water-efficient plants, as outlined in the Beverly Hills Garden Handbook.

Furthermore, permit holders may request extensions from the City Council if they require additional time for the removal process, addressing any logistical challenges they may face in complying with the new regulation.

Conclusion

The ban on synthetic turf in front yards is a significant step for Beverly Hills as it aligns with the city’s broader goals surrounding sustainability, water conservation, and the maintenance of aesthetic standards in residential areas. With the ordinance moving forward to the City Council for final approval, residents and local landscaping businesses alike are preparing for the potential impacts of this new regulation.