Many cities in my state (MN) still have laws on the books that will fine lawn owners for failing to maintain a green, healthy appearance.
Never mind if it's in a desert or forest terrain... they only allow paved spaces, green grass and landscaping, or certified native prairie replantings, which cost a mint's worth of money to do.
Because "everyone loves green grass" no matter how much water it uses or how much fertilizer runoff it allows.
It is: for farmers, who use something like 80% (I forget the exact number).
It isn't for cities, and denser cities use less water because there are no big lawns and other waste.