In case people wonder why AZ has a water problem...

[CreekDog]

13. Xeriscaping would be better unless the use is for sports or recreation, however...

most grass in Phoenix, for anybody whose spent much time there is a different species than grass in other parts of the country.

i think people get the impression that grass in Phoenix is lush, thick turf like you see in Seattle or New England, but it's not. usually it's a type of Bermuda grass which uses a lot, lot less water and is not very thick and which has relatively thin leaves and even some spikes.

for what it's worth, Tucson golf courses often only maintain grass right around the holes --that's one way they work around it.

additionally, there is a groundwater mining law in Arizona which requires developers to prove that they have water for the development for 100 years. to prove that they often promise xeriscaped developments, smaller yards, etc.

so while Phoenix used to have acres and acres of thirsty lawns and fountains decades ago, it has changed a great deal and not only is xeriscaping happening in Phoenix, it's quite popular and many have switched over to it, new developments and projects use it quite a bit.