Grass isn’t completely illegal in Las Vegas, but there are strict regulations to manage its use to support water conservation. These measures include restrictions on existing grass areas as well as new installations.
Continue reading for a comprehensive breakdown of the rules and what they mean for you.
Grass restrictions in Las Vegas
So, is grass illegal in Las Vegas? Not entirely.
While grass isn’t completely illegal or banned, there are laws and restrictions affecting lawns in the Las Vegas Valley and the wider Southern Nevada region to help manage water supply. Here’s a quick rundown:
| AB356 law | 2021 Southern Nevada Water Authority (SNWA) Board Resolution |
| • Prohibits irrigation of nonfunctional grass in commercial, government, and multi-family properties by 2027 • Does not apply to single-family homes. Homeowners can keep their existing lawns. | • Bans new grass installations in all new commercial and residential developments • New housing developments cannot have irrigated grass lawns, but existing homes can keep theirs. |
Southern Nevada relies on Lake Mead for 90% of its drinking water. Lake Mead’s low levels indicate water shortages in the Colorado River system, so the region has had to limit the amount of water it takes from the lake.
Getting rid of useless grass
If you manage a non-residential property with nonfunctional grass, take note:
Starting in 2027, Nevada’s AB356 will prohibit using Colorado River water for irrigating nonfunctional grass. This new law aims to save water by encouraging the replacement of grass that doesn’t serve a practical or recreational purpose.
This move comes as seven states (Arizona, California, Colorado, Nevada, New Mexico, Utah, and Wyoming) grapple with water shortages from the overused Colorado River.
Here’s a closer look at what this means:
- Applies mostly to non-residential areas: The law applies to commercial, government, multi-family, and other non-residential properties. If you manage or own these properties, you’ll need to evaluate and potentially replace nonfunctional grass areas to comply with the law.
- Single-family homes are not affected: If you have grass at your home, whether in your front or back yard, you’re in the clear. You can keep your lawn as it is. Just remember to care for it wisely and conserve water, even with the best grass types for Las Vegas.
Pro Tip: If you have grass at home, it’s important to know the assigned watering schedules for Las Vegas. This helps you stay within the rules and conserve water properly.
Functional vs. nonfunctional grass
| Type of grass | Description | Subject to AB356 restrictions? |
| Functional | Irrigated grass area that provides a recreational benefit to the community, such as as athletic fields, playgrounds, golf courses, and pet relief areas | NO |
| Nonfunctional | Grass not used for practical or recreational purposes, like along streets and parking lots, around buildings not for single-family homes, or in HOA-managed areas not providing recreational benefits | YES |
Here’s the good news: If you’re switching to water-saving landscapes, you can take advantage of a great incentive.
SNWA’s Water Smart Landscapes rebate program incentivizes removing grass and replacing it with desert-friendly plants. The rebate amount varies depending on the area converted, with higher rates for the first portion and reduced rates for additional areas.
Prohibitions on new grass installation
Thinking of installing a lush green lawn for your new home? Unfortunately, that’s no longer an option.
In December 2021, the SNWA Board of Directors approved a resolution banning irrigated grass installations in new residential and commercial developments to save water. This is projected to conserve approximately 27,000 acre-feet of water over the next several decades.
Who’s affected?
The grass ban applies to all new residential and commercial developments, extending to both front yards and backyards of newly constructed homes. It also affects custom homes built by individual property owners, as well as properties within master-planned communities, HOAs, community associations, and neighborhood developments.
What’s allowed?
Grass installation is still allowed in parks, schools, and cemeteries for community use.
What you can do
While you can still enjoy grass in parks and existing homes, new developments will need to find alternative landscaping options.
If you’re building or moving into a new home, consider low-maintenance landscaping ideas for Las Vegas. This will not only boost your home’s curb appeal but also help manage water use. Some options you can consider include ideas for xeriscaping and artificial turf.
FAQ about grass restrictions in Las Vegas
When will Las Vegas ban grass?
Starting January 1, 2027, AB356 bans using Colorado River water for irrigating nonfunctional turf, pushing for the replacement of useless lawns to save water. This doesn’t affect existing grass at single-family homes.
However, since December 2021, an SNWA resolution has banned installing new irrigated grass in newly built homes.
Can I still grow a garden in Las Vegas?
Absolutely, you can still grow a garden in Las Vegas. Here are some desert-friendly landscaping and water-wise options to consider:
- Rock gardens, including low-maintenance outdoor succulents
- Drought-tolerant plants that may come in a variety of perennials or native trees, shrubs, succulents, flowers, and vines
By choosing these alternatives, you can enjoy a lush garden while using less water.
Learn more in our article: “Drought-Resistant Landscaping Ideas for Las Vegas.”
How can I apply for a waiver for functional grass?
Establishments can apply to SNWA for a waiver if their grass provides a community recreational benefit and meets the functional turf criteria.
To get the waiver, you need to show that your grass meets the requirements, including:
- Purpose the grass serves (e.g., sports fields, playgrounds)
- Turf dimensions fit its intended use
- Number of people using it and frequency
- Proximity to similar functional turf areas
- Public access and proximity to roads
- Presence of facilities and amenities such as other recreational features
- Efficient irrigation practices
Need help with your lawn? Hire a pro.
Feeling a bit overwhelmed by the new grass rules? You’re not alone. Whether you’re maintaining an existing lawn or planning a new one, a local lawn care expert can make your life easier. They’ll take care of everything, from keeping your yard looking great to making sure it’s up to date with the latest regulations in Las Vegas.
Main Image Credit: Nate Hovee | Adobe Stock Free | License
