Metropolitan Water District of Southern California / SoCal WaterSmart
Metropolitan Water District Turf Removal Rebate (SoCal WaterSmart) is available to homeowners in San Diego, CA.
The Metropolitan Water District of Southern California, through the SoCal WaterSmart program, offers $2 per square foot for homeowners who remove lawn turf and replace it with drought-tolerant landscaping. The City of San Diego also offers its own Landscape Transformation Program layered on top. Applications are submitted online, and pre-approval is required before removing turf. San Diego County Water Authority member agencies participate.
Must get pre-approval before removing turf; replace with water-efficient plants or permeable surface; available to water customers of San Diego County Water Authority member agencies; additional city rebates may stack on top
Official source site checked live on 2026-06-22.
Data last verified 2026-04-03. How we verify our data.
In San Diego, CA, you can combine this program with other local help to cut your cost:
A grant-savvy contractor in San Diego, CA can handle the paperwork, inspections, and timelines so your funding releases on schedule. Getting matched is free.
You will likely need a contractor to apply
Projects like this almost always need a licensed contractor, and many grants ask for a written estimate as part of your application. Lining up a contractor in San Diego early keeps your application moving.
Get matched with a contractorEach program sets its own contractor rules. Check the official program page for exact requirements.
Documents you will likely need
Requirements vary by program and locality. Confirm the exact rules on the official program page. We can help you prepare your paperwork, but you submit it yourself.
Deadline: Rolling, subject to Metropolitan Water District funding levels
Ask us. It is free, and a real person answers within a business day.
Email us about this program$2.00 per square foot of turf removed (residential); no cap stated.
Metropolitan Water District Turf Removal Rebate (SoCal WaterSmart) is open to homeowners in San Diego, CA. It has no income limit.
Apply directly with Metropolitan Water District of Southern California / SoCal WaterSmart using the official program link on this page or call 1-888-376-3314. There is no middleman and no fee.
Grant-approved contractors understand the documentation, inspections, and timelines, so your funding releases on schedule.
Rebates and discounts that stack on top of any grant. Most are free to use.
This is just one of many grants, rebates, and free programs available. Stack them together to maximize your savings.
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