Forward-thinking businesses like the Aliante Golf Club have replaced water-thirsty, decorative grass with drought-resistant landscapes well before a state-mandated deadline targeting nonfunctional turf takes effect.
A Nevada law passed in 2021 prohibits the use of Colorado River water delivered by local utilities to irrigate decorative grass at businesses, HOAs, and multi-family properties after 2026.
Properties across the valley have already taken steps toward compliance with the nonfunctional grass law. The Aliante Golf Club in North Las Vegas replaced nearly 460,000 square feet of grass in four phases through the Southern Nevada Water Authority’s (SNWA) Water Smart Landscapes (WSL) rebate program. The conversions collectively save more than 25 million gallons of water annually.
Property managers are encouraged to plan now to convert decorative grass areas to drip-irrigated landscaping, which uses up to 75 percent less water. One of the first steps to ensure your property is in compliance with the law is to contact SNWA.
SNWA is the authorized agency that identifies what areas of a property are impacted by the nonfunctional grass law, which applies to all decorative grass found at businesses, office parks, strip malls, retail centers, HOA common areas, and apartments and condominiums.
SNWA conservation experts will provide property maps classifying the grass to help businesses and HOAs plan landscape projects to ensure compliance with the law. They also will share information about the WSL rebate and other SNWA programs that help properties save water and money.
Visit snwa.com for details about the WSL rebate and to find more information about the Nevada nonfunctional turf law.
