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SUSTAINABILITY - ACTION ITEM: (1) Discussion of Restrictions on Astroturf; (2) Direction to Staff; and (3) Recommendation to City Council.
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Meeting Date: June 23, 2026
Contact/Dept: Sean Singletary, Public Works Department - EPO Division
Phone Number: (310) 253-6457
Fiscal Impact: Yes [X] No [ ] General Fund: Yes [X] No [ ]
Attachments: Yes [ ] No [X]
Public Notification: Email via GovDelivery (06/18/2026): Meetings and Agendas - Sustainability Subcommittee, Parks, Recreation, and Community Services Commission; Stay Informed - Community Gardening, Sustainability and Environmental Issues, Urban Forest Management, Environmental Programs and Events
Dept Approval: Yanni Demitri, Director of Public Works/City Engineer
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RECOMMENDATION
Staff recommends the Sustainability Subcommittee (1) discuss details of a ban on astroturf; and (2) provide direction to staff; and (3) make recommendations to the City Council for consideration.
BACKGROUND/DISCUSSION
At the October 13, 2025 meeting, the City Council made multiple decisions regarding various bans, including restrictions of balloons, plastic carry-out bags, and single-use plastic bottles, astroturf, and smoking. However, City Council wanted more information and a recommendation from the Sustainability Subcommittee regarding the options for restricting astroturf, including various available products. Enforcement development was also sent to the Sustainability Subcommittee.
At the January 8, 2026 Sustainability Subcommittee meeting, enforcement strategies were discussed for all proposed bans and Members expressed a preference for a combination of Complaint-Led Enforcement and Inspection-Led Enforcement, as well as proactive educational outreach.
Members also expressed a preference for the 18-month phase in and the hardship waiver for all proposed bans, as suggested by City Council.
Astroturf regulations were deferred to a later meeting.
Staff will present considerations for restricting astroturf. Staff is requesting Member guidance regarding products and other details.
Members may discuss, provide staff with direction, and make recommendations to City Council.
FISCAL ANALYSIS
The fiscal impact would be related to staff/consultant time for education and enforcement. Costs would depend on the level of enforcement. Although fines could be generated, staff does not anticipate any significant revenue to be generated from this product restriction.
ATTACHMENTS
None.