San Bernardino, CA Water Use Rules: Turf Replacement Rebates (2026)

06, adopted by Ord. MC-1311, creates a voluntary path for single-family homeowners to convert existing landscaping to less water-intensive planting without being cited for the dry-vegetation and dead-vegetation rules that would otherwise apply while the yard sits unirrigated. To enroll, the owner must occupy the property, submit an application to the Development Services Department listing the parcel's Assessor's Parcel Number, describe both the landscaping being removed and the replacement design, and commit to a start date within 12 months of filing and a completion date no later than the next May 31.

The replacement landscape must follow the city's Water Wise Landscape Guidelines: water-efficient, drought-tolerant, and native plant material, planted areas set at least one inch below adjacent sidewalks and driveways to stop runoff, and any remaining turf set back at least 24 inches from curbs, driveways, or sidewalks. The Director of Development Services reviews the application and either issues a water wise landscaping permit or denies it, specifying which code requirements the project fails to meet. 040(A)(2) for unirrigated or dead vegetation, but only on the portion of the yard being converted; the rest of the property must still comply with the code.

A yard sign from the Department must be displayed the entire time the exemption applies, and a certificate of completion with color photographs is due once installation finishes. 090 bars maintaining the property in a way that constitutes one, regardless of program status.