Council Wants to Make It Easier for L.A. Residents to Swap Out Landscape for Artificial Turf

The Los Angeles City Council asked its staff today to develop proposals that would make it easier for residents to install artificial turf -- instead of water-using landscaping -- on the narrow strips of land between sidewalks and roads.

While the city already has guidelines in place allowing residents to install drought-tolerant landscaping in the areas, obtaining a permit to install artificial turf can cost residents more than $2,000, according to a motion introduced by Councilman Bob Blumenfield and approved by the council.

“Angelenos understand the severity of the threat posed by the current drought,” Blumenfield said. “We in the city need to make it easier for Angelenos to conserve water by rethinking their landscaping. Reducing barriers to the use of turf alternatives is an important step in that direction.”

The council instructed Bureau of Engineering staff to work with the City Attorney’s Office to report back with a plan for how property owners can go about installing artificial turf in their parkways.

The anticipated guidelines could mean reducing permitting fees and eliminating other requirements, according to a council aide.

Mayor Eric Garcetti today issued an executive order calling for water conservation across the city.

--City News Service

PHOTO Patch file photo.

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