Artificial turf looks like the easy way out of a thirsty lawn. If you want a city rebate, check the rules first: two of the three programs in our data rule it out in plain words.
Mesa
“Artificial turf or rock alone does not count.”
Mesa also asks for living plants that cover half the area at maturity:
- Plants must reach at least 50% canopy coverage at maturity, from the ADWR low-water-use list.
Chandler
“No artificial turf, black plastic sheeting, fountains or pools in the rebate area.”
Chandler sets its own plant and coverage rules:
- At least 50% canopy coverage of the landscapable area.
- At least 50% of the total landscapable area must be non-grass after conversion.
Phoenix
Phoenix's rules (as summarized from its official page) don't mention turf. They ask what replaces your grass and point you toward desert landscaping:
“Describe what will replace the grass; desert landscaping is recommended.”
It also requires that you leave no bare soil:
- No bare soil after the project.
What to choose instead
A desert yard with low-water plants, drip irrigation and granite top dressing is what these programs describe. Confirm the details with your city before you start. Browse the low-water plants, compare the three styles, or preview your own yard.