Here in Massachusetts, community associations have started scrutinizing certain yard features more closely than ever before. I’ve noticed neighbors increasingly complaining about specific landscaping choices, and honestly, I understand some of their concerns.
Environmental impact, property values, and neighborhood aesthetics are driving these conversations about which garden elements might face restrictions in our Bay State communities.
1. Artificial Turf Lawns
Many Massachusetts homeowners installed artificial grass hoping to save water and maintenance time. The plastic material, however, creates urban heat islands and prevents natural water absorption during our heavy spring rains.
Local environmental groups are pushing for restrictions, especially in communities near wetlands or water sources. The microplastics shed from these surfaces eventually make their way into our beloved Massachusetts waterways…