POLICY CORNER
City of Austin Rulemaking
Background: The City of Austin is considering a proposal to classify synthetic turf as impervious cover—treating it the same as concrete or asphalt. This change would significantly restrict the use of synthetic turf across homes, parks, schools, and commercial landscapes.
However, the City’s own materials and national stormwater authorities recognize important distinctions related to synthetic turf’s water use, environmental performance, and installation design. A blanket impervious classification overlooks these distinctions and risks undermining Austin’s water-conservation goals.
Statement from the Texas Turf Council Regarding Austin’s Proposed Classification of Synthetic Turf as Impervious Cover
January 2026
The Texas Turf Council opposes the proposal to classify synthetic turf as impervious cover in the City of Austin because it does not reflect how modern turf systems are engineered or how they perform in real-world Texas conditions.
Synthetic turf requires no irrigation, fertilization, or herbicide use, making it an important water-conservation tool in a drought-prone region. A blanket impervious classification also ignores well-established differences in installation and drainage performance. National stormwater guidance recognizes that properly installed turf systems can function as pervious surfaces, allowing water to infiltrate rather than run off.
Many cities across the country regulate synthetic turf using performance-based standards—including drainage and installation requirements—rather than default impervious designations. These approaches protect water quality while preserving flexibility for water-efficient landscape solutions.
The Texas Turf Council supports science-based, performance-driven policy and welcomes the opportunity to work collaboratively with state and local leaders to develop thoughtful regulatory approaches that support water conservation and benefit Texas communities.