Apartment managers, HOA's, and landlords are able to dictate our outside spaces. Mine says that I must maintain at least 75% of my outdoor ground coverage in live green plants. Pots, planter boxes, water features etc. are allowed only after the 75% threshold has been met. No artificial turf or hardscaping allowed. Fail to meet these requirements and soon the fees will come. There are no exemptions for the old and disabled, county wide watering restrictions, or temporary illness/injury. Rules and requirements vary by location and management group, but most contracts are similar.

This might be a good idea in areas with plenty of rain, moderate temperatures, and a wealthy zip code, but for families struggling in a desert climate conserving water- it's wasteful.

Beautiful fountains, rock gardens, potted plants, gnomes, and artificial turf all meet the intent of the requirements, i.e. nice curb appeal. Best of all they use far less water to maintain compared to grass, trees and flowers.

Knowing the above, I put forth the idea that there be a state mandate that in times of drought, policies that require grass, trees, plants, etc. be nullified and replaced by standards like, well maintained outdoor spaces, keeping installations (fences, porch, benches, pools, patio furniture, etc) in safe working order, and be free of trash and junk as defined by city code enforcement.

Currently I have a contract that states that if I am unable to meet the requirements, that management will do it themselves, and send me the bill. Now every water day I have to attempt to keep my new fruit trees, vines, herbs, and flowers alive while also using as little water as possible. Had I been allowed to, I would have done a full hardscape with a few drought tolerant plants in pots. It would have saved me thousands in gardener/handy man fees, water bills, and migraine medicine.

In conclusion, I believe the state of California should be a leader in water conservation and environmental growth. By banning green space requirements and replacing them with options. It might work best with an additional incentive for those that reduce their water use with a small property tax write-off.