October 20, 2026
Introduction to California Water Code Section 10608.14
What is California Water Code Section 10608.14 ?
Purpose
California Water Code Section 10608.14, a new water conservation regulation, supports California's long-term water resilience by advancing more efficient use of potable water in response to recurring drought, climate change, and growing pressure on limited water supplies.
Scope
It prohibits the use of potable water to irrigate non-functional turfgrass on commercial, industrial, and institutional (CII) properties, using a phased implementation approach.
Definitions
Functional Turf
As defined by the regulation: a ground cover surface of turf located in a recreational use area or community space. Turf enclosed by fencing or other barriers to permanently preclude human access for recreation or assembly is not functional turf.Examples include:
Parks & sports fields
Picnic grounds
Nonfunctional Turf
As defined by the regulation: turf that is not functional, including street rights-of-way and parking lots.
If the only time you step foot on the turf is to mow it, it is likely nonfunctional.
Exemptions exist for:
Tree health, cemeteries, and public health & safety needs.
A Phased Implementation Approach
January 1, 2028
New regulationsin effect for commercial, industrial, and institutional customers January 1, 2027
New regulations in effect for Local Governments and Public Agencies January 1, 2029
New regulationsin effect for HOA Common areas + common interest developments
The City’s Responsibilities
Revise regulations, ordinances, or policies to include California Water Code Section 10608.14 requirements and definitions by January 1, 2027 Communicate these requirements to customers on or before that date Consider enforcement policies and procedures
Enforcing California Water Code Section 10608.14
Statutory Authority
California Water Code Section 10608.14 gives both the State and the City of Fullerton enforcement authority Preserving Local Control
By establishing a basic enforcement framework, Fullerton can preserve local control over how enforcement is applied.
Ordinance Updates
Amend Fullerton Municipal Code Section 12.06.060 “Permanent Water Conservation Requirements; Prohibition Against Waste” Can be enforced using mechanisms that already in Section 12.06.090 “Penalties, violations, and enforcement” Amend Fullerton Municipal Code Section 12.06.020 “Definitions” to include required definitions