Why Costco Locations in Nevada Are Removing These…

Why Costco Locations in Nevada Are Removing These Products From Shelves

Costco is known for its consistent product selection across the country, but the company will occasionally make regional changes in response to local laws and consumer demands. In Nevada, a state facing unique environmental and economic pressures, shoppers have noticed that several specific product categories have been quietly removed from the shelves in 2025. These removals are not a sign of a national trend, but are instead a direct response to the specific challenges and priorities of the Silver State.

Artificial Turf

In response to Nevada’s severe and ongoing drought, the state has implemented some of the most aggressive water conservation laws in the country. This includes a ban on the installation of new, non-functional grass turf in the Las Vegas area. To align with this major policy shift and to discourage water-intensive landscaping, Costco locations throughout Nevada have quietly stopped selling large rolls of artificial turf, a product that was once a popular seasonal item.

Certain High-Water-Use Plants and Trees

Continuing with the theme of water conservation, the garden centers at Nevada Costco locations have also changed their inventory. They have phased out certain types of thirsty, non-native plants not well-suited to the state’s arid desert climate. Instead, they are now focusing on a selection of drought-tolerant and native plants that support the region’s “water smart” landscaping initiatives.

Specific Models of Gas-Powered Leaf Blowers

Air quality is a major concern in the densely populated areas of Las Vegas and Reno. To combat pollution, some local ordinances in Nevada are considering restricting the use of gas-powered leaf blowers and other small-engine landscaping tools. In response to these regulations and the growing consumer preference for cleaner electric alternatives, Nevada Costco stores have reduced their selection of gas-powered models and expanded their offerings of battery-powered electric versions.

Single-Use Plastic Water Bottles (in some areas)

While not a statewide ban, some local governments and large venues in Nevada have pushed to reduce single-use plastic waste. This has led to a change in consumer and business purchasing habits. As a result, Costco has seen a shift in demand toward large, refillable water jugs and water filtration systems. This has led to a reduction in the shelf space dedicated to the massive pallets of single-use plastic water bottles.

Adapting to the Local Landscape

The product changes in Nevada’s Costco stores are a clear example of a major retailer adapting to the unique environmental and regulatory challenges of a specific region. As the state continues to grapple with the effects of climate change, expect to see more retailers follow suit. They will continue to alter their inventories to better align with the new realities of living in the American West.

If you shop at a Costco in Nevada, have you noticed any other products that have disappeared from the shelves? What other changes do you think retailers should make to support conservation efforts? Let us know!