EBMUD and the State Water Board fund Berkeley turf-replacement rebates, paying customers per square foot to remove lawn and install climate-appropriate plants and high-efficiency drip irrigation.
Berkeley homeowners participate in the EBMUD Lawn Conversion Rebate Program, which currently pays roughly $1.25 to $2 per square foot of removed turf, plus state matching funds during drought stages. Eligible projects must replace lawn with low-water plants or permeable hardscape, retain at least one shade tree per 1,000 square feet where feasible, and use drip or low-volume irrigation. Synthetic turf is generally not rebate-eligible. Pre-conversion inspection and submission of plant lists are required. Berkeley landscape ordinances prohibit replacement designs that increase impervious area or block sidewalk drainage.
Improperly installed conversions can be denied rebates and may trigger stormwater citations if they increase runoff; no separate municipal fine applies to participation choices.
Berkeley, CA
Berkeley encourages California native landscaping through the Bay-Friendly program and EBMUD rebates. Natives reduce water use, provide habitat, and align wi...
Berkeley, CA
Berkeley residents follow East Bay Municipal Utility District watering rules: no irrigation between 9 a.m. and 6 p.m., no runoff onto sidewalks, and stricter...
See how other cities in Alameda County handle turf replacement rebates.
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