City Council approves $250,000 Turf Rebate Program; Residents encouraged to participate

In an effort to encourage water conservation during the current statewide drought, the City of Palm Springs will match the Desert Water Agency’s (DWA) $3 per square foot turf removal rebate up to $5,000 per project.

The combined $6 per square foot incentive will be available to residences and HOAs for grass removal. The City and DWA are targeting Dec. 1 to launch the joint program.

The City Council approved a total of $250,000 for the rebate program at their Oct. 27 meeting. Projects receiving a City match will be required to minimize their use of artificial turf.

“We thank Desert Water Agency for partnering with the City to accelerate essential water wise landscaping as we move forward with necessary conservation efforts,” said Mayor Lisa Middleton. “The City of Palm Springs is committed to supporting our residents minimize their water usage during this severe drought.”

“We’re grateful to the City of Palm Springs for grass removal funding to help us work with more residents and HOAs,” said DWA Board President Kristin Bloomer. “Removing grass is the best thing property owners can do to reduce their water footprint. These projects help our community become more sustainable.”

In addition, low-income residents who live in disadvantaged communities may be eligible for additional incentive funding to help offset the cost of converting from grass to water wise landscaping.

More information will be posted at dwa.org/city and at yoursustainablecity.com