How to Apply for San Diego, California Water Rebates

Application Steps

1. 1

   Estimate your rebate using the SoCal WaterSmart address lookup

   Before applying, use the bewaterwise.com address lookup to confirm your water agency, verify the current rebate rates for your specific utility, and estimate the total rebate for your project size.

   SoCal WaterSmart rebate estimator
2. 2

   Apply at bewaterwise.com and receive pre-approval before starting

   Submit the turf replacement application through the SoCal WaterSmart portal. Include your water account number, project square footage, and replacement plan. Do not remove any turf before receiving written pre-approval — work started before approval is ineligible.

   • Water utility account number
   • Property address
   • Estimated square footage of turf to replace
   • Proposed plant list or replacement materials
   • Before photographs of existing turf
3. 3

   Complete the turf removal and install drought-tolerant landscaping

   After pre-approval, remove qualifying turf and install the approved drought-tolerant replacement. If using California native plants for the County bonus, ensure your plant selections are on the approved County list.

   • Receipts for plants, mulch, and materials
   • After photographs of the completed installation
4. 4

   Submit completion documentation and receive payment

   Submit after photographs and receipts to SoCal WaterSmart through the application portal. The rebate payment is calculated at $3/sq ft (SoCal WaterSmart $2 + SDCWA $1) for eligible SDCWA-served properties. If claiming the native plant bonus, submit to the County of San Diego separately.

   San Diego County rebates and incentives