CWASD Turf Removal Rebate Program

Requirements

• Apply and get approval before removing any lawn.
• At least 50% of the area in low-water or native plants.
• Spray and rotor irrigation must be retrofitted to low-volume drip.
• Apply first and wait for a rebate reservation number before killing or removing any lawn. Finish within 120 days of the Rebate Reservation Confirmation, then send photos of the finished project.
• Owners apply, or send the owner's written agreement. The lawn must be live and watered with drinking water now, and none may be left in the converted area.
• Trees don't count toward the plant cover. Mulch-only or rock-only conversions and artificial turf do not qualify.
• Converting over 1,000 sq ft, or more than half of the irrigated area: contact the district first.
• Call 811 (DigAlert) before digging. Don't harm city street trees, and keep 3 feet clear around fire hydrants (mulch is fine there).
• Keep the converted area for 5 years, or the rebate can be recovered on the water bill; that ends if the property sells to an unrelated party.
• Mail the application (English or Spanish) to 53462 Enterprise Dr, Coachella, CA 92236. Questions: (760) 501-8100.

Steps, in order

1. Apply on Coachella Water Authority & Sanitary District’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.