Rebate amounts are subject to change at any time and are based on availability at the time of application approval.

Commercial Turf Replacement

Starting in January 2027, non-residential properties in California, such as schools, parks, homeowner associations, office parks, are prohibited from using potable water to irrigate grass that is not used for recreation or other purposes – also known as non-functional turf.

Instead of simply turning off the irrigation and letting the grass die, consider replacing that non-functional turf now with beautiful, drought-tolerant landscaping that will draw people to your property.

We’re here to help. Get $3 or more per square foot for replacing up to 50,000 square feet of grass with sustainable California Friendly® and native landscaping.

The Turf Replacement program combines non-functional turf removal, irrigation modification and rainwater retention or filtration to support reuse or soil absorption of rainwater. Please note, synthetic turf is not an approved conversion option for this program.

Every turf replacement project will include:

• 3 plants per 100 square feet of area transformed
• A stormwater retention feature
• No hardscape within the transformed area, except permeable hardscape
• Replacement or modification of overhead spray sprinklers
• Tree Rebate (optional)

The Turf Replacement program is a two-part application process. You must apply to reserve rebate funds before starting your project. After the reservation is approved, you will have 180 days to complete the project and submit your request for a rebate. Metropolitan Water District is offering a rebate of $3.00 per square foot up to 50,000 square feet of conversion per meter per year. Your water agency may offer an additional rebate incentive. Rebate amounts are subject to change at any time and are based on availability at the time of application approval. To verify eligibility and calculate the current rebate amount for your project, please visit Estimate Your Rebate. Additional information can be found on the Rebate Eligibility page.

Please read the Terms and Conditions and the Frequently Asked Questions thoroughly before applying for your rebate. These pages will help you navigate the application and understand the information and materials you will need to provide as part of the application process.

You may also be eligible for additional rebates on devices such as weather-based irrigation controllers, soil moisture sensors, or rotating nozzles. For information on available outdoor device rebates, please visit the outdoor device page.