How to Get the RiverSmart Homes Program

What you get

Grants for installing multiple stormwater management practices on a residential property. Eligible practices include shade trees ($100 each), rain barrels ($50 each), native plants replacing lawn ($1.50/sq ft), permeable pavement ($2/sq ft), cool roofs, and more. Residents can combine multiple practices to reach the maximum. Applications accepted year-round; schedule a free assessment first.

• Residential: Up to $4,000 (combined practices)

Are you eligible?

• Be a DC Department of Energy & Environment (DOEE) customer
• Property located in: Washington
• Must be a District of Columbia property owner or resident
• Schedule a free RiverSmart assessment through DOEE before starting work
• Projects must be on your residential property
• Work must be completed within one year of grant approval

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 DC Department of Energy & Environment (DOEE) 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.