Los Angeles County Water Use Rules: Turf Replacement Rebates Rules (2026)

MWD's SoCal Water$mart program funds residential and commercial turf-replacement rebates throughout its service area, which covers nearly all of LA County. The 2026 baseline is $3 per square foot of removed live turf, with project caps that vary by year and budget. Replacement landscaping must include qualifying low-water plants, permeable surfaces, and inert ground covers, and may not use artificial turf as the sole replacement. LADWP, Long Beach Water, Pasadena, and other member retailers frequently top up the rebate by another $1 to $2 per square foot for in-city customers. Pre-inspection and approval are required before any turf removal; post-removal photos and plant lists must be submitted to claim the rebate.