San Antonio, TX Water Use Rules: Turf Replacement Rebates (2026)
Key Facts
- Program
- WaterSaver Landscape Coupon
- Residential cap
- Up to $400 typically
- Minimum area
- 200 sq ft turf removed
- Plant list
- SAWS native/adapted list
- Inspections
- Pre and post required
Summary
SAWS WaterSaver Landscape Coupon, administered by the Conservation Department, pays residential customers for replacing high-water turf with drought-tolerant landscape, supporting drought-stage compliance and the Edwards Aquifer Management Plan.
(a) A property owners' association may not include or enforce a provision in a dedicatory instrument that prohibits or restricts a property owner from:(1) implementing measures promoting solid-waste composting of vegetation, including grass clippings, leaves, or brush, or leaving grass clippings uncollected on grass;(2) installing rain barrels or a rainwater harvesting system;(3) implementing efficient irrigation systems, including underground drip or other drip systems; or(4) using drought-resistant landscaping or water-conserving natural turf.(b) A provision that violates Subsection (a) is void.(c) A property owners' association may restrict the type of turf used by a property owner in the
Full Breakdown
SAWS Conservation operates the WaterSaver Landscape Coupon, a popular turf-conversion incentive paying residential customers per square foot of irrigated St. Augustine grass replaced with approved drought-tolerant beds. Single-family residential coupons reach up to 400 dollars typically, with higher incentives for larger conversions or commercial properties. Eligibility requires a SAWS pre-inspection, an approved planting plan emphasizing native and adapted plants from the SAWS-recommended list, removal of at least 200 square feet of irrigated turf, mulched soil preparation, and post-installation inspection. Customers in good standing on water bills who complete projects within stated timelines receive payment. The program complements drought-stage rules and the SA Climate Ready CAAP water-conservation goals.
Violations & Fines
Misrepresenting square footage or installing non-approved plants results in coupon denial and clawback. Letting replaced areas fail to remain irrigation-free for the maintenance period can trigger return of paid funds. SAWS may pursue civil collection.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does SAWS pay for turf replacement?
What plants qualify for SAWS coupons?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in San Antonio
Texas rules heatmap·Compare San Antonio to another location·View the Texas water use rules overview
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