DATE: November 17, 2026
TO: Mayor and City Council
FROM: Director of Public Works
SUBJECT
Title
Hayward Municipal Code Amendment: Introduction of a Revised Prohibition of Wasteful Water Practices Ordinance 17-07 Amending Chapter 11, Article 2, Section 11-2.47, of the City of Hayward’s Municipal Code, Prohibiting the Use of Potable Water for Nonfunctional Turf Irrigation, and Finding the Amendments Categorically Exempt from California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Review Pursuant to Section 15061(b)(3) of the CEQA Guidelines
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RECOMMENDATION
Recommendation
That the City Council introduce an Ordinance (Attachment II) amending Chapter 11, Article 2, Section 11-2.47, of the City of Hayward’s Municipal Code prohibiting the use of potable water for Nonfunctional Turf Irrigation, and finds the action to be categorically exempt from CEQA review pursuant to Section 15061(b)(3) of the CEQA Guidelines.
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SUMMARY
Assembly Bill 1572 (AB 1572) was signed by the Governor on October 13, 2023. This legislation amends the California Water Code and requires public water systems to prohibit the use of potable water for irrigating nonfunctional turf on commercial, industrial, and institutional properties, homeowners’ associations, common interest developments, and community service organizations.
To comply with California Water Code §10608.14, public water suppliers must revise their ordinances, regulations, or policies by January 1, 2027, and communicate these changes to their customers. This amended ordinance (Attachment II) provides the required policy updates to meet State law, while retaining the City’s existing framework for wasteful water practices, and enhancing water conservation efforts.
Failure to comply could result in regulatory penalties and missed opportunities for State funding for turf replacement.
ATTACHMENTS
Attachment I Staff Report
Attachment II Ordinance Amendment