Residential Outdoor Water Conservation Rebates & Services

A water-efficient landscape and irrigation system can reduce outdoor water use and minimize the amount of polluted dry weather runoff that enters the storm drain system. The City of San Diego is working to help customers conserve water by offering rebates for smart controllers, micro-irrigation, and turf replacement. Public Utilities customers residing in a single family home, duplex, townhome, or condominium that is served by an individual water meter can participate in any or all three rebate categories. Rebates are offered through a State of California grant and are available on a first come, first served basis until funding is exhausted. Click on the links below to learn more about the City's residential outdoor water conservation rebate programs and services and specific qualifying requirements.

Rainwater Harvesting (Rain Barrel) Rebates NEW

Get $0.50 for every gallon of rainwater storage capacity (up to 400 gallons and $200.00) (Program Starts January 15, 2012).

Smart Controller Rebates

Get up to $400 for upgrading an existing non-weather based irrigation controller to a Smart Controller (also known as a weather based irrigation controller or WBIC) found on the SWAT list of tested devices (PDF).

Micro-Irrigation Rebates

Get $0.20 per square foot (up to 2400 SF and $480 per customer) for converting an overhead spray sprinkler system to low application rate micro-irrigation (i.e., micro-spray, drip, in-line emitters, etc.)

Sustainable Landscape-Turf Replacement Rebates

$1.25 or $1.50 per square foot (up to $3,000 per customer) for replacing living FRONT YARD lawn with sustainable and water wise landscaping.

Free On-Site Water Conservation Surveys

The City of San Diego offers residential customers free on-site indoor and landscape water conservation surveys that provide customized information on how to save water and money.

Free Mulch from Miramar Greenery

Applying mulch to your garden will reduce the need to water. City of San Diego residents may self-load up to two cubic yards of compost or mulch for free with proof of residency. One cubic yard is equal to the size of six 32-gallon trash cans. Mulch and compost can be loaded by Miramar Greenery staff. Wood chips can be purchased for a modest fee at the Miramar Landfill fee booth located at the landfill's entrance. Please call the Miramar Landfill at (858) 492-6100 to confirm availability on a particular day.