How to Get the Rainscaping Lincoln: Sustainable Landscapes Cost Share Rebate

What you get

Cost-share reimbursement for rain gardens, bioswales, waterwise lawns, and pavement removal. Up to 50% of eligible expenses, maximum $2,000. Applicants cover initial costs, then submit receipts after project completion for reimbursement. Native landscaping counts as a "waterwise lawn" for this program. Applications open each year in mid-March and the program typically fills by the end of April (confirmed by City of Lincoln Watershed Management staff, August 2026).

• Residential: 50% up to $2,000

Are you eligible?

• Be a City of Lincoln Watershed Management customer
• Property located in: Lincoln
• Property must be within Lincoln city limits
• Applicant must own the property
• Pre-approval required before work begins
• Applications accepted until funding runs out

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 Lincoln Watershed Management 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.