California city bans synthetic grass

The city of Glendale, Calif., has began enforcing a prohibition on synthetic turf for front lawns, according to an article in the Glendale News Press. 

The Glendale ban has been in place for three months, according to the article, but code enforcement officers have recently issued six violation notices to property owners who refused to remove the artificial turf from their front yards. Faux grass in the backyard is permitted, however.

When the issue was debated before the City Council, residents of this Southern California city voiced concerns about lead poisoning and the heat given off by synthetic turf. Proponents cited its water-saving attributes.

Home improvement retailer Lowe’s has began offering synthetic turf aimed at the DIY customer through a pilot program with Dalton, Ga.-based SYNLawn. The product is currently in 463 Lowe's stores.