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Keep off the grass

BROWN IS THE NEW GREEN: Nearly all of California is officially out of the drought, but one emergency rule that targets bright green lawns is on its way to becoming permanent.

A ban on the use of potable water on nonfunctional turf is one floor vote and a governor’s signature away from becoming reality. Wait, before you run to your sprinkler: Your yard and sport fields aren’t included. The state would ban ornamental grass only on commercial, industrial or institutional properties. Think of those decorative strips of grass at malls or office parks or in common areas controlled by homeowner associations.