Episode 24: AB 1572 and Non-Functional Turf

October 6, 2026
Posted by: Marc Evangelista
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EPISODE DESCRIPTION

In this episode, hosts Steve Tinnelly and Ramona Acosta sit down with Gabe Ponce and Ryan McManus to discuss AB 1572 and California’s restrictions on the use of potable water to irrigate nonfunctional turf. The conversation explores what these requirements mean for homeowners associations, including common area landscaping, recycled water, compliance, enforcement, and how boards can begin preparing for future landscape and irrigation changes.

KEY POINTS

• Understanding AB 1572 and California’s restrictions on nonfuncitonal turf
• Why California is restricting the use of potable water for irrigation
• What qualifies as nonfunctional turf under the law
• What the restrictions mean for HOA common areas
• Options for converting nonfunctional turf and irrigation systems
• Exceptions for trees, perennial plantings, and health and safety needs
• HOA compliance requirements and potential enforcement
• The importance of planning and reserving funds for future landscape projects
• Resources and potential rebates available to associations

ABOUT OUR GUESTS

Gabe Ponce is the Founder and President of Precision Landscape Solutions. Nearly ten years ago, the landscape company Gabe worked for was acquired by a private equity firm. While grateful for the opportunities he had been given, he realized the company’s new direction no longer aligned with his own values. Gabe believed that landscaping should be personal, that clients deserve direct relationships, accountability, and a company that genuinely cares about the communities it serves. With that vision, he took a leap of faith and founded Precision Landscape Solutions. Today, Precision Landscape Solutions proudly employs nearly 50 team members and maintains more than 40 commercial properties throughout Southern California.

Ryan McManus has been with Riverside Public Utilities (RPU) for 15 years and has served on the Customer Engagement team for his entire tenure. Ryan currently serves as the Principal Programs and Services Representative on the Customer Engagement Team and oversees the water conservation efforts of RPU. Additionally, Ryan develops energy efficiency programs for RPU that reach both residential and commercial customers. Ryan has earned an MBA from the University of Redlands and the Certified Energy Manager designation through the Association of Energy Engineers.