November 28, 2025
Artificial grass is widely used across New Zealand for backyards, schools, commercial spaces, and public areas — but when it comes to driveways or vehicle access, many homeowners aren’t sure whether synthetic turf can safely handle the weight of a car. The short answer is: yes, but only when installed correctly and with the right base system.
Driving on artificial turf isn’t suitable for every installation, but with proper engineering and product selection, it can be a functional, attractive alternative to traditional driveway materials. This guide explains everything you need to know, including weight limits, best-practice installation, and which turf types perform best in high-load areas.
To help answer these questions, let’s go through how can you drive on artificial grass systems are designed, how they behave under vehicle weight, and what you should consider before installing turf in driveways or parking zones.
Synthetic turf fibres themselves are not load-bearing — the foundation beneath the turf carries the weight of a vehicle. This means the base construction is the critical factor in determining whether turf can withstand cars, utes, caravans, or trailers.
When professionally installed using the correct method, these systems can hold the weight of a standard domestic vehicle.
Artificial turf can handle vehicles if and only if the installation is designed for load-bearing use. That means:
E.g., driving in and out of a garage or parking area.
Turf placed under wheels where vehicles are parked part-time.
Turf can perform well and prevent muddy or damaged ground.
Turf laid between pavers or concrete pads allows visual softness without full load-bearing stress.
These applications are common in NZ homes where homeowners want a greener, softer aesthetic that blends into landscaped surroundings.
There are situations where synthetic turf is not recommended unless specialised engineering is used.
Daily heavy-use driveways may require more robust materials.
Vans, trucks, and machinery can exceed the load rating of most turf bases.
Cars braking or turning on slopes can cause shear stress.
If the base is not compacted to a driveway standard, the turf will fail.
In these cases, pavers, concrete strips, or hybrid systems may perform better.
For turf to withstand vehicle weight, the base layer must be engineered similarly to a driveway foundation.
Here’s how professionals build a driveable turf installation:
Remove:
Typical depth: 120–200mm, depending on soil type and vehicle load.
A geotextile stabilising fabric prevents shifting and stops the base from sinking under pressure.
This is the most important structural element.
A correctly compacted base:
✔ Supports vehicle weight
✔ Prevents ruts and sinking
✔ Ensures a level surface long-term
This creates a smooth, even surface for the turf and prevents imperfections.
Driveable areas require:
Soft landscape-style turf is not suitable for driveways.
Infill helps the turf resist compression from tyre pressure.
Professionals usually use:
Vehicle use stresses the outer edges, so installers may use:
This prevents turf movement and keeps the driveway clean and defined.
When installed correctly, driveable turf offers unique benefits:
Many NZ homeowners use turf to create modern layouts with alternating concrete pads and green strips — a popular design for newly built homes.
While turf can be used for vehicle areas, it isn’t perfect for every situation.
Driveable turf bases are deeper and more labour-intensive.
DIY installations almost always fail under vehicle weight.
Higher-density turf helps reduce this.
Standard turf driveways shouldn’t be used for heavy trucks or commercial vans.
Artificial turf is a great option if you want:
For full-time, heavy-use driveways, a hybrid system (pavers + turf) may provide a better balance of durability and design.
Driving on artificial grass is absolutely possible — but only when the installation is engineered for load-bearing use. With the right crushed rock base, strong turf backing, proper edging, and stable infill, synthetic turf can support everyday home vehicle use and remain attractive for years.
If you’re planning a driveway or parking area renovation, make sure you work with a supplier familiar with driveway-rated turf systems to ensure long-term success.
How can we help?
Whether you need a surface solution for sports, leisure, or landscaping, our product range and expertise are second to none. Our experts are with you all the way, from selection to installation to maintenance: we pride ourselves on our exceptional customer service. So, what would you like to do next?
