Lawns Can Go Brown

Sacramento, CA — Governor Jerry Brown has signed legislation to make it clear that every California homeowner has the right to let their lawn go brown, during the drought.

The bill, introduced by Democratic Assemblywoman Cheryl Brown, outlaws cities and counties from issuing fines related to “lawn maintenance” violations in a time of drought. The new law specifically takes effect if the Governor declares a drought State of Emergency. It was noted during the debate that at least three southern California cities have either issued warnings or fines related to brown lawns during the current drought. The Governor earlier signed similar legislation banning homeowners associations from punishing residents for not watering lawns.