Riverdale, population about 9,279 (Census ACS 2020–2024), has a Residential Landscaping chapter (10-28) that lists "artificial grass/turf" in its definition of hardscape space. A public copy of the code says hardscape of a residential dwelling may not exceed 50% of the property's open space, unless it existed before the chapter was passed (Riverdale code, public copy). The chapter was adopted in 2006 and amended in 2020 and 2021 (Ordinances 926 and 939).
The same chapter caps living turf and lawn at 35% and bans it in park strips, on slopes over 25% and in areas under 8 feet wide. It requires the front yard, corner side yard and park strip to be landscaped before a certificate of occupancy is issued. The code reads as a hardscape definition, not a standalone artificial turf section, so ask Riverdale how synthetic turf in a park strip or front yard is treated before you plan one.
Hardscape Math for a Turf Yard
If synthetic turf counts as hardscape, it shares the 50% limit with patios, walkways and other hard features. Add up everything before you design. An installer can measure your open space and show how much turf fits, leaving room for planting beds, trees or a patio.
2026 Water Limits
In April 2026 Weber Basin told Riverdale its water supply was restricted by 20%. The city's order, in effect until November 1, 2026, asked residents to reduce exterior watering by 20%, barred watering from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and added a 25% surcharge above 10,000 gallons (KJZZ, Apr 2026). That pressure on lawn watering is one reason homeowners ask about turf. Check the city's current notice for the latest limits.
Rebates in Riverdale
Riverdale is in Weber Basin's $2.50 per square foot tier for the Landscape Lawn Exchange. Artificial turf is excluded (Weber Basin). See our rebate guide for how to weigh a rebate against turf.
Riverdale Homes at a Glance
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey 2020–2024 5-year estimates, via Census Reporter. Estimates carry margins of error. Only 57% of homes are single-family detached, so many Riverdale residents live in townhomes, duplexes or apartments with shared grounds, and an HOA or landlord may decide before the city does.
| Measure (Census ACS 2020–2024) | Riverdale |
|---|---|
| Population | 9,279 |
| Housing units | 3,595 |
| Median year built | 1986 |
| Built 2010 or later | 6% |
| Owner-occupied | 74% |
| Single-family detached | 57% |
Costs
See the artificial turf cost guide. For smaller courtyards and patios, look at putting greens and pet turf. Nearby Ogden and Layton set their own rules.
Services available in Riverdale
Artificial Grass Lawns
Front and back lawns replaced with turf on a proper compacted base, priced in writing.
Artificial Grass Lawns →Backyard Putting Greens
Contoured synthetic greens with fringe and cups, sized to the yard you have.
Backyard Putting Greens →Playground and Commercial Turf
Padded playground turf, HOA common areas and low-water commercial frontage.
Playground and Commercial Turf →Turf Removal and Replacement
Worn or failed turf pulled up, the base repaired, and new turf laid properly.
Turf Removal and Replacement →See typical artificial turf costs in Salt Lake City & Riverdale →
Turf Questions From Riverdale Homeowners
Does Riverdale allow artificial turf in front yards?
Riverdale's residential landscaping chapter counts artificial grass or turf as hardscape, and hardscape may not exceed 50% of a dwelling's open space. We found no separate artificial turf section, so ask the city how it treats a synthetic front yard.
Does Riverdale have water restrictions in 2026?
Yes. A city order in effect until November 1, 2026 asks for 20% less exterior watering, bars watering from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and adds a surcharge above 10,000 gallons. Check the city for current notices.
Does the Weber Basin lawn rebate cover artificial turf in Riverdale?
No. Riverdale qualifies for the $2.50 per square foot rate, but replacing lawn with artificial turf, concrete or other hard surfaces is excluded.