The short answer
The install itself is usually the quickest part. The steps that decide your real timeline are approval from your HOA (if you have one), the Arizona 811 locate before digging, and how long it takes to deal with existing grass, especially Bermudagrass.
If you plan to kill Bermudagrass before the install, that step alone can take weeks. Ask your installer how they will handle it and add it to your schedule.
Why Bermudagrass can add weeks
University of Arizona Cooperative Extension says glyphosate works best on Bermudagrass that is vigorously growing, not drought stressed, and has lots of leaf surface, so it recommends not mowing for 2 to 3 weeks before treating. Its best time of year is mid to late summer, and repeat applications may be needed.
The same publication says black plastic sheeting over established Bermudagrass should be left in place for at least 6 to 8 weeks in summer, and that placing plastic over Bermudagrass in winter will not control it. Some installers remove grass and roots mechanically instead. Ask which method they use and how it affects your timeline.
An artificial turf project, step by step
Every yard is different. Use this as a planning checklist and ask your installer to put their own dates beside each step.
| Step | What happens | What sets the pace |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Measure and quote | An installer measures the yard, checks drainage and talks through turf types and the layout. | How soon you can schedule a visit and compare quotes. |
| 2. HOA approval (if any) | You submit the design, turf type and layout to your HOA. | Your HOA's review process. Check your CC&Rs and design guidelines. |
| 3. Arizona 811 | Underground utilities are located and marked before digging. | At least two full working days' notice before digging (not counting weekends and state holidays). |
| 4. Grass removal | Existing grass, weeds and roots are removed or killed. | The method. Bermudagrass can take weeks to control (see above). |
| 5. Base prep | The area is excavated, graded for drainage and compacted, often with a weed barrier. | Yard size, access for equipment and soil conditions. |
| 6. Install and infill | Turf is rolled out, seamed, secured at the edges and infilled, then brushed. | Yard size, number of seams and cuts, and borders. |
No price or time is guaranteed here. Your installer's written scope and schedule is what counts.
HOA and Arizona 811 rules to plan around
HOAs: Arizona law (A.R.S. 33-1819) says that, in a planned community that allows natural grass, the HOA may not prohibit artificial turf once the developer's period of control has ended, but it may adopt reasonable rules about installation and appearance. Get written approval for the product and layout before you book so you do not have to redo anything.
Arizona 811: Arizona law requires anyone who plans to dig to contact Arizona 811 at least two full working days in advance, not counting weekends and state holidays, so underground utilities can be located and marked. Under A.R.S. 40-360.22, operators must mark their lines within two working days, and marks are valid for fifteen working days. Most installers file the request for you.
How to keep your turf project on schedule
- Ask your HOA for its turf rules before you get quotes.
- Decide early how Bermudagrass will be handled.
- Stop mowing ahead of a glyphosate treatment if your installer plans one.
- Clear the yard of furniture, pots and play sets before the crew arrives.
- Mark sprinkler heads, lines and anything else you want saved or capped.
Questions to ask your installer about timing
- How far out are you booking right now?
- How will you remove or control existing grass, and how long does that take?
- Who files the Arizona 811 request, and when?
- How many days will the crew be on site?
- What happens to the schedule if a monsoon storm hits mid-install?
Get your free, exact quote
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Sources checked 2026-11-10: University of Arizona Cooperative Extension: Bermudagrass; Apache Junction Water District: Prepare to Dig (Arizona 811); A.R.S. 40-360.22; A.R.S. 33-1819.