During a recent Deerfield Beach city commission meeting, the topic of artificial turf was thoroughly examined, following a request from Mayor Commissioner Huda Khazad. The discussion, led by Eric Power, the director of plant development services, focused on the regulations surrounding artificial turf within the city and compared them to those in other municipalities.

Power provided a detailed overview of artificial turf, clarifying that while it is permeable, it does not meet the definition of \"pervious\" as outlined in the city’s landscape code. He emphasized that artificial turf is not considered a living material and is prohibited in city-owned swales or right-of-ways. The city’s code defines landscaping strictly as natural, living plant materials, which excludes artificial turf.

The presentation highlighted that Florida's \"Florida Friendly\" landscaping principles do not recognize artificial turf as a suitable product due to its environmental impacts, including higher surface temperatures and contributions to the heat island effect. Power noted that artificial turf can exacerbate stormwater runoff issues, potentially worsening flooding in the area.

Historically, Deerfield Beach had an ordinance prohibiting artificial turf in front yards, which was removed in a 2019 code amendment. However, the current regulations still prevent its use in required landscaped areas, allowing it only in rear and side yards under certain conditions.

Power pointed out that Deerfield Beach has the lowest minimum landscaping requirement in Broward County, allowing for 15% of front yards to be landscaped, compared to 25% in nearby municipalities. He expressed concerns that permitting artificial turf in front yards could further reduce this already minimal requirement and lead to broader requests for its use in multifamily and commercial zones.

In conclusion, staff recommended maintaining the prohibition of artificial turf in front yards and swales, citing environmental concerns and the potential for increased regulatory burdens. The commission is considering drafting an amendment to clarify where artificial turf may be permitted, while also weighing the implications of any changes to the existing code.