Thursday, October 15, 2026TheUtah Ledger

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Salt Lake City development tracker

Landscaping and buffers artificial turf amendment

Amendments to Title 21A would allow artificial turf in required front and corner side yards (with at least 33 percent live vegetation) while still banning it in buffers and park strips. The Planning Commission forwarded a negative recommendation; briefed June 2, 2026.

Where it stands
Approved
Type
Code change
Location
Citywide
Applicant
Salt Lake City Planning Division

Every hearing and vote

  1. December 5, 2023 · City Council work session

    Landscaping and buffers chapter text amendment

    Discussed

    Planner Nannette Larsen presented a rewrite of Title 21A's landscaping and buffers chapter to cut water use, expand the tree canopy, reduce heat island effects and stormwater runoff, improve air quality, limit rock mulch and simplify standards. Further discussion was set for the Dec. 12 work session, with a hearing Jan. 9, 2024.

    • Hearing set for Jan. 9, 2024

  2. March 5, 2024 · City Council

    Landscaping and buffers chapter text amendment

    Approved · 6-0

    The Council adopted Ordinance 12 of 2024, revising the landscaping and buffers chapter of the zoning code to reduce water use, strengthen the urban forest, improve air quality and green infrastructure, and simplify the chapter. The motion delays enforcement of provisions on artificial turf installed before the effective date by 18 months so residents can comply, and directs the Administration and Council staff to tell affected residents. Council Member Wharton said he was glad to finalize a project that could help water conservation.

    • Ordinance 12 of 2024
    • Enforcement delay: 18 months for artificial turf installed before the effective date

    Moved by Council Member Daniel Dugan, seconded by Council Member Eva Lopez Chavez. Vote: 6-0

  3. June 2, 2026 · City Council work session

    Landscaping and Buffers chapter text amendment

    Discussed

    Deputy Planning Director Michaela Bell presented changes to Title 21A that would allow artificial turf in required front and corner side yards, require at least 33 percent of required landscaping to remain live vegetation, keep the ban on artificial turf in required buffers and park strips, and set standards for tree root protection, aesthetics, permeability and turf quality. The Planning Commission forwarded a negative recommendation. Members discussed water conservation, effects on neighbors, neighborhood character, enforcement trends (most artificial turf cases are on the west side), and clearer language. Council Member Wharton asked how other cities regulate artificial turf; staff will also provide an FAQ.

    • Hearing tentatively July 14; council action July 21