- Orange County homeowners can get a rebate for each square foot of lawn they replace with a water-wise yard.
- Apply and get approved before any grass comes out. This is the rule that trips up the most people.
- The new yard needs living plants. Artificial turf generally doesn't qualify.
If you live in Orange, Tustin, Irvine, Costa Mesa or anywhere nearby, you've probably heard you can "get paid to rip out your lawn." It's true, but only if you follow the program's steps in the right order. Here's how it works, in plain English.
What is the turf rebate?
The main program is SoCal Water$mart, run by the Metropolitan Water District for Southern California water customers. In Orange County, your local water provider may add its own money on top. The rebate is paid per square foot of lawn replaced. Amounts and limits change from time to time, so always check the current rate for your address at socalwatersmart.com.
The 5 steps, start to finish
What usually qualifies (and what doesn't)
| Usually OK | Usually not OK |
|---|---|
| Replacing a living lawn | Lawn that's already been removed |
| California natives and other water-wise plants | Artificial turf |
| Mulch, decomposed granite and permeable paths | Large solid concrete areas |
| Drip irrigation | Leaving old spray sprinklers in place |
| A rain-capture feature, like a dry river rock bed | Sending all rainwater straight to the street |
Each program has its own fine print, like minimum plant coverage or a minimum project size, so read your program's terms or ask us.
5 mistakes that can cost you the rebate
- Removing grass before you're approved.
- Not enough plants. Programs usually require a certain amount of plant coverage, not just rock.
- No rain-capture feature. Many programs require one.
- Keeping spray sprinklers. They usually need to be converted or removed.
- Missing photos or paperwork at the final inspection.
How long does it take?
Approval can take a few weeks. Once you're approved, you get a set window to finish the project, often around six months. Your approval notice lists your exact deadline. After the final inspection, the rebate is paid by the program.
Who runs the program where I live?
It depends on your address. Most of Orange County uses SoCal Water$mart, and cities like Orange, Tustin, Irvine and Costa Mesa are served by a few different water providers, some of which add their own incentives. The easiest way to check is to enter your address at socalwatersmart.com, or ask us and we'll look it up for you.
Common questions
Can I remove my lawn before I apply?
Usually not. Most programs require approval before any grass is removed. Removing it first is one of the most common ways people lose the rebate.
Does artificial turf qualify?
Generally no. The regional program and most local water agencies require living, water-wise plants, not synthetic grass.
How much is the rebate?
It's paid per square foot of lawn replaced, and some local agencies add extra. Amounts change, so check the current rate for your address at socalwatersmart.com or with your water provider.
Can I do the work myself?
Yes. Many homeowners do. Our turf rebate consulting can help you with the rules and paperwork whether you do the work yourself or hire someone.
Thinking about replacing your lawn?
We're based in Orange and help homeowners understand the rebate rules and plan water-wise yards. Call 909-767-8391 or send us a message.
This guide is general information, not official program rules. Always confirm current requirements with SoCal Water$mart or your water provider before starting.