How to Get the Rain Check Program

What you get

Rebates for stormwater management: rain gardens ($22/sq ft), permeable pavers ($20/sq ft), downspout planters, and other tools. Rain gardens use native, drought-tolerant plants and absorb runoff from roofs and hard surfaces. Installation through Pennsylvania Horticultural Society contractors.

• Residential: Up to $2,500 (rain gardens $22/sq ft, permeable pavers $20/sq ft)

Are you eligible?

• Be a Philadelphia Water Department customer
• Property located in: Philadelphia
• Must be a Philadelphia property owner
• Attend free required virtual workshop
• Schedule installation through PHS; contractor does infiltration test and design
• Projects must meet PWD stormwater management standards

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 Philadelphia Water Department 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.