How to Get the Backyard Conservation Program

What you get

The Fayette County Conservation District's Backyard Conservation Program reimburses 50% of eligible project costs, up to a $200 cap, for rain gardens, pollinator gardens, and native plants or trees (the same flat cap also covers unrelated items like rain barrels and compost bins within the same program). Open to all Fayette County residents, including renters. The program is currently at capacity; 2026 applications will be accepted exclusively online via JotForm when they reopen (Fayette County Conservation District; last verified July 2026).

• Residential: 50% reimbursement, up to $200 per project

Are you eligible?

• Be a Fayette County Conservation District customer
• Property located in: Lexington
• Fayette County, KY resident (renters and landowners both eligible)
• One application per household
• Submit receipts, invoices, and photographs within 60 days of approval
• Program is currently at capacity; reopens for 2026 applications via JotForm

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 Fayette County Conservation District 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.