Bexar County, TX Water Use Rules: Turf Replacement Rebates (2026)
Key Facts
- Minimum area
- 200 square feet
- Workshop
- Required
- Aquifer source
- Edwards Aquifer
- Rebate form
- Nursery coupons
Summary
SAWS WaterSaver Landscape Coupons offer rebates when Bexar County customers replace high-water turf with drought-tolerant beds. Participation is voluntary, but the Edwards Aquifer reliance makes the program a major regional water tool.
Sec. 202.007. (a) A property owners' association may not include or enforce a provision in a dedicatory instrument that prohibits or restricts a property owner from: ... (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 planting of new turf to encourage or require water-conserving turf. Sec. 202.008. LIMITATION ON FINES DURING RESIDENTIAL WATER RESTRICTION. (a) For the purposes of this section, 'residential watering restriction' means a temporary restriction of water use to irrigate residential vegetation or turf that is mandated by a municipality, water utility, or other wholesale or retail [provider].
Full Breakdown
San Antonio Water System runs the WaterSaver Landscape Coupons program for residential customers across its Bexar County service area. Customers who attend a workshop and replace at least 200 square feet of healthy turf with approved drought-tolerant plants and mulch can receive coupons redeemable at participating nurseries. The program complements year-round watering restrictions and reduces draw on the Edwards Aquifer, sole drinking water source for most of the region. Bexar County residents on other utilities should check whether their water supplier offers similar programs. There is no county ordinance compelling turf removal; the policy lever is rebates and education.
Violations & Fines
Submitting a fraudulent rebate application or removing the new landscape early can require coupon repayment and disqualification from future SAWS programs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I replace turf with artificial grass?
Are HOAs required to allow xeriscape?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Bexar County
Texas rules heatmap·Compare Bexar County to another location·View the Texas water use rules overview
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