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On May 15, 2026, TNLA met with San Antonio Water System (SAWS) to discuss a new pilot initiative called the WaterSaver Pro Program for large residential properties. This program is designed to recognize landscape and irrigation practices that demonstrate long-term water savings, efficient irrigation use, and landscape resilience. Program Overview: According to SAWS, WaterSaver establishes both minimum and enhanced “Pro” standards for the design, installation, and retrofit of irrigation and landscape systems on residential properties with irrigated areas greater than or equal to 10,000 square feet. This program is intended for: landscape designers, irrigation professionals, builders, landscape installation contractors. SAWS emphasized that the major theme throughout the program is intentionality; designing landscapes and irrigation systems with long-term efficiency, water conservation, and site functionality in mind. Benefits of WaterSaver Pro Participation Projects achieving the WaterSaver Pro designation may qualify for:
WaterSaver Pro Point Categories SAWS outlined four major scoring components:
Additional items discussed during the meeting included:
Pilot Program Participation TNLA discussed the importance of identifying potential pilot participants, particularly:
SAWS indicated they are still refining some program details, including: approved smart controller models, pilot program timelines, communication and submittal procedures At this time, SAWS recommended that participants communicate progress through spreadsheets and submitted irrigation/landscape plans as projects are finalized. Next StepsTNLA is currently gathering interest from members who may want to participate in the pilot program or provide industry feedback as SAWS continues developing the WaterSaver Pro standards. If you are interested in participating in the pilot program or learning more, please contact TNLA. We will coordinate with SAWS regarding next steps and future discussions. Below are the materials SAWS provided outlining:
Contact TNLA’s Legislative & Regulatory Affairs Team
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What Landscapers, Builders, and Suppliers Need to Know San Antonio Water System (SAWS) is preparing to actively inspect soil quality under newly installed turfgrass—a requirement that has been in the city code for nearly 20 years but has never been consistently enforced. This is the first time we’re aware of a Texas water utility inspecting soil quality on single-family homes, and it could influence how other cities handle water-conservation rules in the future. TNLA is tracking this closely to ensure members understand what’s coming and how it may impact your projects in San Antonio and beyond. Why SAWS Is Doing ThisSAWS’ goal is straightforward: improve soil beneath sod so landscapes use less water over time. Better soil means:
What the Ordinance RequiresSan Antonio’s existing soil rule states that new turfgrass must be installed over at least 4 inches of soil, which must include a minimum of 0.25 inches of Soil Organic Matter (SOM). SOM may come from enriched topsoil or contractor soil mixes that improve structure and water-holding capacity. In short: sod must be installed on quality soil that can hold water and support healthy growth. This isn’t a new rule—this is new enforcement. TNLA’s PositionIn November 2024, the TNLA Board formally adopted a position supporting a minimum 4-inch soil depth in areas with water-conservation concerns. The science is clear: Healthy soil is essential for responsible water use and long-term landscape success. TNLA supports soil standards that:
Why This Matters Beyond San Antonio Because SAWS is the first Texas water utility to launch this type of inspection on single-family homes, other municipalities may look to this strategy as a model. This could influence:
What’s NextTNLA will:
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AuthorTNLA Staff Archives
October 2026
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