Council to consider limits on watering decorative lawns - home lawns exempt

The City Council will hold a public hearing Tuesday, Nov. 17 (agenda here) on a proposed ordinance that would ban the use of drinking water on decorative grass in places such as street medians and parking lots. The proposal would implement a state law that phases in restrictions starting Jan. 1, 2027, for most government properties, followed by businesses and institutions in 2028 and homeowners association common areas in 2029. Nothing in the report indicates where users could obtain non-potable water for watering.

Home lawns and grass used for recreation or gatherings would be exempt. The city would issue warnings for the first two violations and could impose fines of up to $1,000 a day for a third or subsequent violation. Details.

- Brad Haugaard