Understanding Senate Bill 24-005: A Push for Sustainable Landscaping in Colorado
Senate Bill 24-005: A Path to Sustainable Landscaping in Colorado
In response to the ongoing challenges of water scarcity and climate change, Colorado has introduced a new piece of legislation aimed at reducing water consumption through sustainable landscaping practices. Senate Bill 24-005 (SB24-005), set to take effect in 2026, will significantly reshape landscaping across commercial, public, and HOA-managed spaces. The legislation focuses on prohibiting the installation of non-functional turf, which is often wasteful in terms of water usage and maintenance. While this bill is a critical step in conservation efforts, it also opens the door for a more eco-friendly approach to outdoor design.
What is Senate Bill 24-005?
Senate Bill 24-005 is a state law designed to limit the use of non-functional turf in Colorado's commercial, institutional, and public spaces. Non-functional turf refers to grass areas that serve no practical purpose—such as decorative lawns or ornamental grassy fields—that require frequent watering and maintenance. These areas are known to consume excessive amounts of water, especially in a state like Colorado, where water resources are limited. The bill aims to curb water waste by replacing these high-maintenance, water-hungry landscapes with more sustainable and water-efficient alternatives, such as xeriscaping and native plant gardens.
Key Provisions of SB24-005
Prohibition on Non-Functional Turf: Starting January 1, 2026, SB24-005 will prohibit the installation of non-functional turf, including ornamental grass lawns and artificial turf, in many commercial, institutional, and HOA-managed spaces. The bill applies to areas like parking lots, street medians, transportation corridors, and rights-of-way where turf serves no necessary function.
Exceptions: The law does not apply to recreational spaces, such as parks or golf courses, where turf is needed for specific purposes like sports and activities. Additionally, existing non-functional turf installations will not need to be removed, but new installations will be subject to the new restrictions.
State Facilities: Beginning in 2025, the Colorado Department of Personnel will be prohibited from including non-functional turf and invasive plant species in state facility construction and renovation projects. This provision ensures that state projects align with Colorado's broader sustainability goals and lead by example.
Local Authority and Stricter Regulations: While the law sets a state-wide baseline, local municipalities and HOAs are encouraged to implement stricter landscaping regulations if desired. Some areas may opt for more aggressive restrictions on water-intensive landscapes, providing further opportunities for sustainable design.
Why SB24-005 is Important for Colorado
Water conservation is increasingly urgent in Colorado due to the state's dry climate, periodic droughts, and growing population. Landscaping, particularly traditional grass lawns, accounts for a large portion of residential and commercial water use in Colorado, with outdoor irrigation consuming as much as 50% of residential water. SB24-005 is part of Colorado’s broader effort to reduce the pressure on water resources and promote sustainable alternatives.
The legislation supports the adoption of xeriscaping and other water-efficient landscaping practices that reduce water consumption, maintenance costs, and environmental impact. These sustainable landscapes are not only more water-efficient but also contribute to local biodiversity by providing habitat for wildlife and pollinators. Moreover, they help reduce the need for chemical fertilizers and pesticides, which can harm the environment.
Impact on Property Owners and Managers
For property owners, HOA boards, and municipal managers, SB24-005 presents both challenges and opportunities. On one hand, complying with the law will likely require replacing existing non-functional turf with water-efficient landscaping, which may incur initial costs. This could involve redesigning outdoor spaces with drought-tolerant plants, native grasses, and hardscape elements like pathways and rocks.
On the other hand, these changes offer long-term financial benefits. Reducing turf areas means less reliance on irrigation, which lowers water bills and maintenance costs. Property owners can also enhance their curb appeal by creating aesthetically pleasing, low-maintenance landscapes that are more in line with Colorado's natural environment. Moreover, as sustainability becomes an increasingly important factor for tenants and customers, properties with eco-friendly landscapes may attract more environmentally-conscious residents or businesses.
Preparing for SB24-005
With the law taking effect in 2026, now is the time to start planning for the transition. Here are a few steps to help property owners and managers prepare for the changes:
Assess Current Landscapes: Start by identifying areas of your property that feature non-functional turf. Look for grassy expanses that don’t serve a practical purpose, such as ornamental lawns or areas of grass that are purely decorative.
Consult Experts: Work with landscape architects, horticulturists, and irrigation specialists to redesign your outdoor spaces in compliance with the new law. These professionals can help you select the right native plants and create a sustainable landscape that works with Colorado’s dry conditions.
Educate Stakeholders: Inform HOA members, tenants, and other stakeholders about the upcoming changes. Provide clear communication about how the new landscaping will benefit the environment, save water, and enhance the property’s value.
Start Early: Begin making changes now to avoid a last-minute rush. Starting early will give you time to carefully plan, budget, and execute landscaping updates, ensuring that your property is ready for compliance by 2026.
The Broader Impact of SB24-005
Senate Bill 24-005 not only addresses immediate water conservation needs but also represents a step forward in Colorado’s long-term environmental goals. By removing non-functional turf and promoting sustainable landscaping practices, the bill encourages property owners and municipalities to rethink how they design and maintain outdoor spaces. This shift could spark a broader movement toward environmentally responsible development and urban planning.
Additionally, as more Colorado residents and businesses embrace water-efficient landscaping, there is potential for an economic shift toward green industries—such as native plant nurseries, sustainable landscaping services, and water-efficient irrigation systems. This could create new jobs, stimulate local economies, and further strengthen Colorado’s position as a leader in environmental stewardship.
Senate Bill 24-005 is a pivotal piece of legislation that aligns with Colorado’s efforts to conserve water and protect the environment. By prohibiting non-functional turf in commercial and public spaces, the law encourages property owners to embrace sustainable, water-wise landscaping alternatives. While the transition may require an upfront investment, the long-term benefits—ranging from cost savings to environmental impact—make it a worthwhile endeavor. As the effective date of 2026 approaches, now is the time for property owners, managers, and municipalities to start preparing for a more sustainable future. With thoughtful planning and strategic changes, SB24-005 can help Colorado build a more water-conscious, resilient landscape for generations to come.
