The City of Fresno is offering rebates to homeowners who convert their lawns to drought-tolerant landscaping.
The program offers financial incentives for replacing water-intensive lawns with drought-tolerant landscaping.
Open to all customers receiving water service through the City of Fresno Public Utilities, the program provides rebates of $2 per square foot for eligible lawn conversion projects.
Funding is available on a first-come, first-served basis, supported by a $5 million grant from the Department of Water Resources: Urban Community Drought Relief Grant Program.
Fresno Mayor Jerry Dyer said, “This program improves the curb appeal of our community while helping Fresno achieve our water efficiency goals.”
Homeowners can earn up to $3,000 for converting up to 1,500 square feet of front lawn.
Commercial, Industrial, and Institutional (CII) properties can convert up to 4,000 square feet, with a maximum incentive of $8,000.
The rebate program not only supports cost savings but also helps CII customers comply with new state regulations limiting the irrigation of non-functional turf.
Wendy Cornelius, Water Conservation Supervisor, said, “Cooler temperatures help new plants establish roots, and you’ll enjoy a landscape that’s both attractive and designed to use less water year-round.”
Applicants must receive pre-approval before beginning any project.
Eligible conversions must include at least 200 square feet of front lawn, replaced with approved drought-tolerant plants.
Lawns must show signs of recent and consistent watering from an irrigation system.
Artificial turf is not eligible for rebate funding.
To learn more or apply, visit the city of Fresno website.