Please refer to each agency's application package.

Only residential property owners up to 4 units who are customers of participating water agencies located are eligible for SoCal Water$mart’s Turf Removal Program rebates. Visit the Turf Removal Program page for a full list of participating agencies.

Why should I consider removing turf from my landscape?

Turf grass commonly used for home landscapes consumes a large percentage of a home’s water use , and the amount of water it takes to keep your lawn green during Southern California’s hot, dry summers can be very high.

You can save water in your landscape by electing to remove turf grass from irrigation and replacing it with water-saving alternatives. These creative options incorporate California Friendly plants and/or less water-intensive surface coverage to make conservation a viable, attractive option for your landscape (see below for more information).


What are the requirements to participate?

All projects must be pre-approved and must not have started prior to applying for turf removal rebates. If you are a customer of a participating water agency, download the Turf Removal Application Package located on the Turf Removal page and follow the instructions for the two-part process.

Can I convert turf in my front yard at this time, and receive another incentive for turf removal in my backyard at another time?

No, incentives are limited to one application per household for any type of measure. If you receive a rebate for turf removal, you cannot apply for another rebate, even if you implement an additional turf removal project at a later date.


What documentation do I need to submit?

Before starting the project, you must reserve your rebate by submitting Part 1 of the Turf Removal Program rebate request form, along with 1) a copy of your recent water bill and 2) four to five photos of each area where you plan to remove the turf.

How long do I have to complete the project?

After receiving the reservation number confirming pre-approval to start the work, you will have 120 days to complete your project (unless otherwise stated on your agency's application) to complete your project and submit Part 2 of the application.


What are the approved turf replacement options?

Please refer to each agency's application package as each agency may have different options. California Friendly plants are an attractive choice. Mulch is accepted, as long as it allows rainwater to soak through (i.e.- it is permeable to air and water). Invasive plant species, turf grass (including buffalo grass),concrete, plastic sheeting or other impermeable surfaces do not qualify.

Synthetic turf is an approved option for certain water agencies; please see your water agency's requirements in the Turf Removal Application. (Not all cities allow synthetic turf installation.)


What are the approved plant types if I choose to replace my turf with vegetation?

Please refer to each agency's application package as each agency may have different options. Southern California’s unique climate consists of mild winters and warm, dry summers. In order to make the most of your water-saving project and enhance water savings, we recommend that you replace turf with California Friendly plants that have adapted to and thrive in these conditions.


To learn more about native plant options, please visit Metropolitan Water District’s California Friendly Gardening Guide. Invasive plant species to avoid are identified on the “Don’t Plant a Pest” brochure from the California Invasive Plant Council.




Back to Turf Removal Program.