Hayward Water Lawn Conversion Rebate Program

Requirements

• Apply and get approval before removing any lawn.
• At least 50% of the area in low-water or native plants.
• Mulch the converted area.
• Homes need no irrigation in the converted area; businesses need a system that meets Hayward's Bay-Friendly landscape ordinance. Any new system is low-volume drip with backflow prevention, a rain shutoff, a pressure regulator, a filter and pressure-compensating emitters. Existing sprinklers in the area are removed, capped or converted to drip, and lawn left behind goes on its own valve.
• Front yards and areas the public can see pay $0.75 per sq ft instead of $0.50; the estimate here uses the back-yard $0.50.
• The application needs a to-scale planting plan and plant list; a pre-conversion inspection and Notice to Proceed come before any work. Finish within 6 months.
• Convert at least 300 sq ft, or the whole lawn if smaller. Enough lawn must remain to show its edges, watered from the city's system, not a private well. Removing a working swimming pool also qualifies; covering one, or removing an empty one, does not.
• Plants must be rated low water use: moderate-water and invasive plants are not allowed, and natives are encouraged. Mulch 3 inches deep, not shredded bark.
• No impermeable surfaces; permeable paving may cover up to half the area. Artificial turf is not eligible.
• Projects over 2,500 sq ft must also meet Hayward's Bay-Friendly Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance.
• Send the application to Lawn.Conversion@hayward-ca.gov or to City Hall, 777 B Street. A W-9 is due before the final inspection; the check comes about 8 weeks after the project passes.
• City staff photograph the project at both inspections and may publish the photos, identified by address only.

Steps, in order

1. Apply on City of Hayward Water’s site and wait for approval. Lawn removed before approval usually does not qualify.
2. Remove the lawn and plant to the requirements above.
3. Send what the program page asks for once the work is done.