The City of Fresno is offering rebates to homeowners who convert their lawns to drought-tolerant landscaping. <\/p>\n
The program offers financial incentives for replacing water-intensive lawns with drought-tolerant landscaping. <\/p>\n
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. <\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
Fresno Mayor Jerry Dyer said, “This program improves the curb appeal of our community while helping Fresno achieve our water efficiency goals.” <\/p>\n
Homeowners can earn up to $3,000 for converting up to 1,500 square feet of front lawn. <\/p>\n
Commercial, Industrial, and Institutional (CII) properties can convert up to 4,000 square feet, with a maximum incentive of $8,000. <\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
Wendy Cornelius, Water Conservation Supervisor, said, “Cooler temperatures help new plants establish roots, and you\u2019ll enjoy a landscape that\u2019s both attractive and designed to use less water year-round.”<\/p>\n
Applicants must receive pre-approval before beginning any project. <\/p>\n
Eligible conversions must include at least 200 square feet of front lawn, replaced with approved drought-tolerant plants. <\/p>\n
Lawns must show signs of recent and consistent watering from an irrigation system. <\/p>\n
Artificial turf is not eligible for rebate funding.<\/p>\n