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

What you get

Reimburses Olathe property owners 50% of eligible expenses for rain gardens, bioswales, and native-plant stream buffers (up to $1,000), rain barrels (up to $75 each, limit two), and compost bins (up to $75). First-come, first-served; limit one project per household per year; pre-inspection required before starting a rain garden, bioswale, or stream buffer; native trees/plants in general landscaping (outside an approved practice) are not eligible; 3-year maintenance commitment (City of Olathe; last verified July 2026).

• Residential: 50% match; up to $1,000 for a rain garden, bioswale, or native plant stream buffer, $75 per rain barrel (limit 2), $75 for a compost bin

Are you eligible?

• Be a City of Olathe customer
• Property located in: Olathe
• Olathe property owner
• First-come, first-served; limit one project per household per year
• Pre-inspection required before starting a rain garden, bioswale, or native stream buffer
• 3-year maintenance commitment

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 Olathe 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.