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2026-06-28 13:34:00 UTC

Massimo on Nostr: California is offering homeowners substantial financial incentives to replace ...

California is offering homeowners substantial financial incentives to replace water-thirsty lawns with eco-friendly landscaping.

Under a joint program by the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power (LADWP) and the Metropolitan Water District of Southern California, residential property owners can receive up to $5 per square foot, with rebates reaching as high as $25,000, for converting traditional grass to sustainable, drought-tolerant plants.

Commercial properties can qualify for up to $6 per square foot, while public agencies may receive $7 per square foot, potentially unlocking rebates exceeding $1 million.

Each square foot of grass replaced with water-wise landscaping saves approximately 44 gallons of water per year. The new yards typically feature native California-friendly plants, organic mulch, and efficient drip irrigation systems, which lower water bills and benefit local ecosystems.

To qualify, applicants must follow a strict pre-approval process: submit landscape plans, site photos, and utility bills online. Once approved, they have six months to complete the project. Experts recommend installing plants between October and March for optimal root establishment. Participants are required to maintain the new landscaping for at least five years.

By joining the program, homeowners not only earn significant rebates but also help recharge groundwater, reduce urban runoff, and protect Southern California’s limited water resources.