Residents show resentment for proposed turf limits

Terms like "Big Brother" are being used to describe a proposed Las Vegas city ordinance that would allow only half of a front yard to be landscaped with turf.

About 15 people showed up at a Monday night public hearing, which ended up lasting about two hours, to discuss the proposed turf limitations, said City Councilman Michael McDonald, who oversaw the discussion along with City Councilman Larry Brown.

"The feeling really was that this is telling people what they're able to do with their property," McDonald said. "It's government going too far."

If passed, the ordinance would limit turf usage to 50 percent in the front yard landscaping of any new development with more than four lots. In apartment complexes and condominiums, the amount of allowable turf usage would be only 30 percent of the total landscaped area.

The turf limitations wouldn't apply to neighborhoods where landscaping limitations are already in place.

The Southern Nevada Coalition 2000 was the original supporter of the measure, which was designed to improve water conservation efforts in the city.

The issue was put off for a month, until more resident and developer input could be collected on the matter. Then the City Council will vote on the ordinance.

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