Artificial turf is more popular than ever in Florida, and in 2025 the state passed a law that changed what cities and counties can do about it. But many homeowners are surprised to learn that the new law does not apply to homeowners associations. Here is what changed, what did not, and how to get your HOA to say yes.
This article is general information, not legal advice. For a dispute with your association, talk to a Florida attorney.
The Short Answer
Your city or county generally cannot ban artificial turf on a single-family lot of one acre or less, as long as the installation meets the state’s standards. Your HOA’s rules, however, still apply. If your community has deed restrictions or architectural guidelines about lawns, you still need to follow them and get approval.
What Florida’s 2025 Synthetic Turf Law Does
In 2025 the Legislature passed HB 683, which Governor DeSantis signed in June 2025. It directed the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) to set minimum statewide standards for synthetic turf, now found in Rule 62-308.100 of the Florida Administrative Code. According to DEP, the standards address:
- Material type and color
- Permeability
- Stormwater management
- Water conservation and water quality
- Protection of nearby trees and adjacent properties
Local governments may still regulate turf, but their rules must be consistent with DEP’s standards and cannot prohibit an installation that complies.
What the Law Does Not Do
- It does not cover HOAs. DEP’s own FAQ says the rule does not address HOA requirements, deed restrictions or other private agreements.
- It only covers single-family homes on one acre or less. Condominiums, duplexes, parks, athletic fields and commercial properties are not included.
- It does not remove local permits. DEP does not issue permits for turf, but your city or county may still require one. Check with your local building department.
- It only protects installations that meet the standards. A cheap install that does not drain properly may not qualify.
What About Florida’s “Florida-Friendly Landscaping” Law?
Florida law (section 720.3075 of the Florida Statutes) stops HOAs from prohibiting Florida-friendly landscaping. That program is built around plants and water-wise landscape design, so do not assume it covers artificial turf. If your HOA prohibits turf, your governing documents are what matter.
How to Get Your HOA to Approve Artificial Turf
- Read your documents first. Check your declaration and architectural review guidelines for anything about lawns, turf or “living ground cover.”
- Choose turf that looks real. Multi-tone, natural-looking turf with a realistic pile height is much easier to approve than bright, uniform green.
- Submit a complete application. Include a site plan, product spec sheets, a physical sample and photos of finished installations.
- Address their concerns up front. Point out drainage, a lead-free product with no crumb rubber, and borders or plant beds that soften the look.
- Get approval in writing before you install. It protects you if the board changes later.
Durafield provides turf samples and spec sheets for HOA applications, and we have installed turf across South Florida communities, including HOA common areas and resorts.
If Your HOA Says No
- Ask for the reason in writing, and which rule it is based on.
- Ask whether a backyard-only or limited-area installation would be approved.
- Request a variance, or bring it to the board at an open meeting. Many communities are updating their rules as more neighbors ask for turf.
- For a real dispute, talk to a Florida attorney who handles HOA law.
Need Help With Your Application?
We serve Fort Lauderdale, Pompano Beach, Boca Raton, Delray Beach, Boynton Beach, West Palm Beach, Stuart, Port St. Lucie and Fort Pierce, and the surrounding areas. Request a free estimate and HOA sample packet or call (954) 366-5244 (South Florida) or (561) 372-4655 (Treasure Coast).
