Metropolitan Water District Turf Removal Rebate (SoCal WaterSmart)

Metropolitan Water District of Southern California / SoCal WaterSmart

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About This Program

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:

Key Details

  • $2.00/sq ft to remove lawn turf and replace with drought-tolerant plants
  • Must get pre-approval before removing turf, apply online first
  • Available to SDC Water Authority member agency customers
  • City of San Diego Landscape Transformation may stack additional rebate
  • Apply at socalwatersmart.com or call 1-888-376-3314

How to Apply

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 contractor

Each program sets its own contractor rules. Check the official program page for exact requirements.

Your application paperwork

Documents you will likely need

  • Proof you own and live in the home (deed, recent mortgage statement, or property tax bill).
  • A government-issued photo ID for every owner on title.
  • A written estimate from a licensed contractor for the work (many programs require this to apply).
  • A recent utility bill for the home (energy and weatherization programs use it to confirm service and usage).
  • Photos of the problem area or the work to be done.
  • The program's own application form, completed (use the official link or phone number on this page).

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

Questions about this program?

Ask us. It is free, and a real person answers within a business day.

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Frequently asked questions

How much can Metropolitan Water District Turf Removal Rebate (SoCal WaterSmart) provide in San Diego, CA?

$2.00 per square foot of turf removed (residential); no cap stated.

Who qualifies for Metropolitan Water District Turf Removal Rebate (SoCal WaterSmart) in San Diego?

Metropolitan Water District Turf Removal Rebate (SoCal WaterSmart) is open to homeowners in San Diego, CA. It has no income limit.

How do I apply for Metropolitan Water District Turf Removal Rebate (SoCal WaterSmart) in San Diego, CA?

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.

Need a Contractor for This Grant?

Grant-approved contractors understand the documentation, inspections, and timelines, so your funding releases on schedule.

Find More Programs in San Diego, CA

This is just one of many grants, rebates, and free programs available. Stack them together to maximize your savings.

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