Part 1: Project Start Approval

• Before you begin your project or remove any turf, you must apply for and receive a reservation.
• The reservation will specify the estimated rebate amount based on the measured area and information provided.
  Note: It is important that you measure your project area(s) accurately. Once your project start has been approved, your rebate amount cannot be increased from the amount reserved.
• Visit the SoCal Water$mart Turf Replacement Application to apply for your project start approval online.
• Items to have ready before applying:
• At least 5 color photos of the areas where you plan to remove turf.  Read the Turf Replacement Program FAQ Page, “What are the Photo Guidelines for Turf Replacement”, to see what types of photos are required.
• A simple landscape plan which shows the area to be transformed and the type and location of your selected stormwater retention feature. Visit the Sustainable Approach page for more information on eligible stormwater retention features.
• A photo or scanned copy of your recent water bill.
• Set up an account with a valid email address and password. This email address will be used to provide information regarding your rebate status. The account will allow you to log back in after your project is complete to claim your reserved funding (see part 2 details below).
• Do not begin your work until you receive an email approval to start your project. This may take approximately two weeks.
• Once you receive approval, you have 180 days to complete your project.
• After completing your project, you are ready to request your rebate.

Part 2: Rebate Application

• When your project is complete, visit the Turf Replacement Application to request your rebate by completing “Step 2: Rebate Application”
• The project start approval will specify the estimated rebate amount based on the footage and information provided. Note: It is important that you measure your project area(s) accurately. The square footage listed on the application cannot be increased from the amount reserved.
• Visit the SoCal Water$mart Turf Replacement Application to apply for your project start approval online.
• Login as a “Returning Applicant” using your original email and password.
• Submit a minimum of eight (8) color photos of your completed project area, showing:
• The required plant coverage
• The sustainable landscape approach selected (i.e. rain garden, rain barrel, etc.)
• Each area where turf was replaced
• The overhead irrigation system
• Please note: it may take up to two (2) weeks to review your rebate application. Once all the necessary documentation has been approved, an inspection of the site may be required.
• Upon the final approval of your rebate application, you will receive your rebate check within 8 to 10 weeks.