California Native Landscaping Rebates
California cities and water agencies offer some of the most generous turf replacement rebates in the country. From $25,000 in Los Angeles to $3,000 in Sacramento, here's every program we've found with requirements, application links, and tips.
Last updated: February 2026 · 6 programs tracked
Key Takeaways
- California offers some of the most generous turf replacement rebates in the country — up to $25,000 in Los Angeles.
- Most programs stack local rebates with Metropolitan Water District base rebates for higher totals.
- California law (AB 1164) prohibits HOAs from banning drought-tolerant landscaping.
- Pre-approval is required before removing turf — apply first, then start work.
- San Diego offers a $1/sq ft bonus specifically for choosing California-native plants.
6
Programs Tracked
$25,000
Max Residential (LA)
3
Regions Covered
Feb 2026
Last Verified
Southern California
4 programs available
Turf Replacement Rebate
LADWP + Metropolitan Water District
Combines LADWP ($3/sq ft) and Metropolitan Water District ($2/sq ft) rebates for removing turf and replacing with California-friendly or native plants. Additional $100/tree rebate (up to 5 trees). Maximum 5,000 sq ft residential.
One of the most generous turf replacement programs in the country. Apply through SoCal Water$mart portal.
Waterscape Rebate Program
County of San Diego + SoCal Water$mart
Base rate of $4/sq ft for residential turf replacement, plus an additional $1/sq ft bonus (up to $2,000) when choosing California native plants. Up to $5/sq ft for removing grass near pavement.
Native plant bonus incentivizes using California-native species over non-native drought-tolerant alternatives.
Turf Replacement Program
IRWD + MWDOC + Metropolitan Water District
Rebate of $3 per square foot for turf removal, with a 250 sq ft minimum and 5,000 sq ft maximum. Additional $100/tree rebate (up to 5 trees). Free landscape design assistance available for participants.
Program is run through MWDOC (Municipal Water District of Orange County). Fall planting recommended for best results.
SoCal Water$mart Turf Replacement
Metropolitan Water District of Southern California
Base rebate of $2/sq ft for residential projects up to 5,000 sq ft, plus $100/tree (max 5 trees). Stacks with local water agency rebates. Apply through the SoCal Water$mart portal.
This is the regional base rebate that stacks with local programs (LADWP, San Diego County, IRWD, etc.).
Central California
1 program available
Grass Conversion Rebate
City of Sacramento Utilities
Rebate of $1.50 per square foot for replacing grass with drought-tolerant or native plants. Preferred plant list includes 830+ varieties with 300+ California natives. Must include drip irrigation with WaterSense smart controller.
Sacramento allocates ~$1M annually for this program. Plant list expanded significantly in 2025 with 250+ new varieties.
San Francisco Bay Area
1 program available
Landscape Conversion Rebate
Santa Clara Valley Water
Rebate of $2 per square foot for converting approved high-water lawns and pools to low-water landscapes. Funding available through June 30, 2026 or until depleted. Applications accepted on an ongoing basis.
Valley Water serves San Jose, Santa Clara, Sunnyvale, and surrounding cities in Santa Clara County.
Rebates in Other States
Frequently Asked Questions
How much can I get back from California landscaping rebates?
Can my HOA block me from replacing my lawn with native plants?
Do I need pre-approval before replacing my lawn?
Is artificial turf eligible for rebates?
When is the best time to plant in California?
Planning a Native Yard? Pollinator Patch Can Help.
Pollinator Patch helps you pick the right native plants for your region, design an HOA-conscious layout, and generate documentation that supports rebate applications.