How to Get the Contain the Rain Stormwater Cost-Share Program

What you get

Reimburses Merriam property owners 50% match up to $1,000 for a rain garden, a separate 50% match up to $1,000 for native/pollinator plantings, $150 per native tree (limit 2), $75 per rain barrel, and a 100% match up to $50 for a bee hotel (not a beehive). Partnered with Johnson County; project must be complete by October 31; 3-year maintenance commitment; a W-9 is required for reimbursement; first-come, first-served until funds are allocated (City of Merriam; last verified July 2026).

• Residential: 50% match; up to $1,000 for a rain garden, up to $1,000 for native/pollinator plantings, $150 per native tree (limit 2), $75 per rain barrel, $50 bee hotel (100% match, not a beehive)

Are you eligible?

• Be a City of Merriam customer
• Property located in: Merriam
• Merriam property owner
• Project complete by October 31
• 3-year maintenance commitment; W-9 required for reimbursement
• First-come, first-served until funds are allocated

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 City of Merriam 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.