Smarter Landscapes: Artificial Turf & Stormwater Management

With its year-round visual appeal, artificial turf has become a popular alternative to conventional lawns that require ongoing maintenance. Despite its benefits, many people question the environmental implications of replacing natural grass, especially in relation to storm water management.

When properly installed, artificial turf can support sustainable design goals. In fact, several states, including North Carolina, have introduced legislation that reflects improvements in modern turf systems. These updates acknowledge that today’s turf solutions can effectively accommodate stormwater management. Let’s explore this topic in more detail.

Why Stormwater Management Matters

After rain, snow, or other forms of precipitation, water must be able to flow or absorb into the environment. Natural elements such a trees, grass, shrubs, and soil play a critical role in this process. In contrast, manufactured surfaces like pavement, brick, metal, and other hard materials are often impervious, meaning they do not absorb or manage water the way vegetation does. As a result, urban and suburban areas with high concentrations of impervious surfaces may experience inefficient stormwater runoff, increasing the risk of flooding, soil erosion, reduced groundwater recharge, and water quality issues.

To help manage these risks, governments at every level have created stormwater management programs. Many include measures like impervious surface limits (ISLs), which cap how much hard surface (ie: driveways, sidewalks, and even artificial turf) can be used on a property. As more eco-friendly and sustainable materials become available, communities now have the opportunity to revisit and modernize these regulations.

How North Carolina Is Updating Artificial Turf Regulations

Historically, artificial turf was treated as an impervious surface under North Carolina regulations. That changed in 2024, when new legislation made it possible for certain high-quality turf systems to be exempt from impervious surface limits. To qualify, turf must meet specific requirements, including correct installation and the ability for water to drain through the backing. These updates signal a broader shift in how artificial turf is viewed, recognizing that today’s products are more sustainable and can even play a role in managing stormwater.

The Role of Artificial Turf in Stormwater Management

Early artificial turf acted like a solid mat over the ground. Because it was impermeable, it could cause environmental issues by preventing proper stormwater drainage.

Advancements in turf technology have transformed this. Today’s artificial turf products are made with more sustainable materials and perform much like natural grass. High quality options, including American Artificial Turf’s FieldTurf systems (a division of Hicks Landscape Contractors), are now environmentally responsible choices. Some of the benefits of choosing premium synthetic grass include:

• Improved drainage: High-quality turf features permeable backing that allows rainwater to pass through and disperse evenly, helping prevent pooling and supporting healthy drainage.
• Erosion control: Turf helps protect the soil beneath it, reducing erosion and soil loss over time.
• Water quality protection: Synthetic turf doesn’t require herbicides or pesticides and is designed to resist breakdown, helping limit harmful contaminants from entering local water sources.
• Water conservation: Artificial turf eliminates the need for routine irrigation, significantly reducing water use—especially during drought conditions.
• Code compliance: In areas with green building standards, sustainable turf options may help meet local regulations while still achieving a polished landscape.

The quality of synthetic turf can differ greatly. To ensure you gain the the sustainability advantage, focus on the materials and design rather than just the surface.

Achieve Ideal Turf While Maintaining Sustainability

Well-designed artificial turf can provide sustainable solutions for challenges like stormwater management. American Artificial Turf, a division of Hicks Landscape Contractors, uses only FieldTurf products, made from 100% porous, permeable, and recyclable materials that drain at least ten times faster than natural grass. These features allow you to enjoy the beauty and functionality of synthetic turf while supporting sustainability. With our expert installation, your turf will perform optimally, helping prevent issues that could impact the environment.

Get your free estimate today and start building the perfect lawn with American Artificial Turf—call us at 919-366-0115.