How to Get the Elizabeth River Project Conservation Landscaping Cost-Share Rebate

What you get

Cost-shares up to 75% of a conservation-landscaping project, to a maximum of $3,500, for converting poorly draining or eroding turfgrass to native plants that capture stormwater runoff. Requires enrollment in the River Star Homes program and a 5-year maintenance commitment; a $100 design deposit is applied to project costs (Elizabeth River Project; last verified June 2026).

• Residential: 75% of cost, up to $3,500

Are you eligible?

• Be a Elizabeth River Project customer
• Property located in: Norfolk, Chesapeake, Virginia Beach, Portsmouth
• Enroll in the Elizabeth River Project River Star Homes program
• Convert poorly draining or eroding turfgrass to native plants
• Project must capture direct stormwater runoff
• Commit to 5 years of maintenance
• $100 design deposit (applied to project costs)

What applying usually looks like

A general guide. Always confirm the exact steps on the official program page, since each provider runs its process a little differently.

1. 1

   Apply and get written approval first

   Submit your application to Elizabeth River Project and wait for written approval before you remove any turf or start work. Starting early is the most common reason a rebate is denied.

2. 2

   Do the conversion

   Replace your lawn with the qualifying landscaping, following the eligibility requirements above.

3. 3

   Submit your claim

   After the work is done, submit your claim on the official program page. Confirm the exact forms, receipts, and any photos they require there, since those vary by program.