Basalt P&Z recommends council adopt ban on nonfunctional turf in most new development

The Town of Basalt Planning & Zoning Commission on Nov. 18 voted to recommend that the town council adopt amendments to municipal code section 16-188 that would prohibit nonfunctional turf in new development and redevelopment projects.

Staff presented the amendments as required by state law. "This item is a public hearing on code amendments . . . for regulating the use of nonfunctional turf in development and redevelopment projects," staff said, noting the changes implement Colorado Senate Bill 24-005 and are intended "to conserve water." The proposed amendments apply to commercial, industrial, government-owned properties and multifamily residential properties and projects over 12 units.

Commissioners sought clarifications before the vote. Staff defined "nonfunctional turf" as turf that "doesn't have a recreational use or other purpose," giving medians between sidewalks and curbs as an example. The code treats "redevelopment" as projects where more than 50% of a site's landscaping is removed; such projects would need to come into compliance. Staff also confirmed the proposal addresses artificial turf, prohibiting nonfunctional artificial turf as well as irrigated natural turf in covered project types.

Public comment was opened and closed with no speakers. After brief commissioner discussion about how the town might provide guidance to property owners and examples of low-water sod, one commissioner moved "to adopt 3A as written" and another seconded. The motion passed by voice vote; the commission will forward its recommendation to the town council for final action.

What happens next: The recommendation will be included in the council packet; because the amendments implement a state statute, staff characterized the changes as largely mandatory housekeeping, though commissioners discussed adding clarifying guidance for residents and applicants.