According to the Beverly Press and Park Labrea News, the Beverly Hills Planning Commission is seeking to ban the use of synthetic turf in residential lawns.

Previously in Beverly Hills, synthetic turf could be used on 70% of ground cover or less to assist with a state-level mandate that limited water use. However, recently municipalities, like Beverly Hills, have been given back the jurisdiction to make their own rulings.

The Planning Commission sites concerns over the introduction of chemicals into the environment in their quest to limit synthetic turf.

Drought remains a significant concern for Californians. However, the Planning Commission intends to turn to drought-resistant native plants as a solution.

“All of the concerns that have been raised about artificial turf can be resolved by having other plant materials other than grass,” Commission vice chair Jeff Wolfe said, according to the Beverly Press and Park Labrea News’ report. “There are plenty of other ground covers, there are plenty of other native California plants that can be done and resolve all of the issues around a grass lawn that were raised and still solve the issue around water.”

The ordinance will ban the use of synthetic turf in front lawns. The Planning Commission also intends to set a grace period for lawns that are already using synthetic turg.

But not all residents are on board.

“As a 45-year resident of Beverly Hills, I’d like to convey my support for the continued use of artificial turf in our residences,” said Kathy Afshani, according to The Beverly Press and Park Labrea News. “Turf has aesthetic appeal, is low-maintenance, doesn’t require pesticides and conserves water.”

“Our family is strongly opposed to the city of Beverly Hills denying our right to artificial grass in our front lawn to save water and beautify our city. Please let us save water,” appealed another resident, Soraya Afra.

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