How to Get the Grass Conversion Rebate

What you get

Rebate of $1.50 per square foot for replacing grass with drought-tolerant or native plants. Preferred plant list includes 830+ varieties with 300+ California natives. Must include drip irrigation with WaterSense smart controller.

• Residential: Up to $3,000 ($1.50/sq ft)
• Commercial: Up to $50,000

Are you eligible?

• Be a City of Sacramento Utilities customer
• Property located in: Sacramento
• Must be a City of Sacramento Utilities water customer
• Pre-approval required before starting work
• At least 5 plants; 60% coverage at maturity required
• Drip irrigation with WaterSense smart controller, or hand watering
• Organic or inorganic mulch (2–5 inches) required

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 Sacramento Utilities 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.