Riverside, CA Xeriscaping Guide
Published: June 6, 2026 · Updated:
Riverside Public Utilities pays $7.00 per square foot on the first 1,000 square feet, then $2.00 to Riverside homeowners who replace thirsty lawn, on at least 250 square feet.
The Riverside turf removal rebate
Residential Turf Replacement, run by Riverside Public Utilities.
$7.00 per square foot on the first 1,000 square feet, then $2.00
- Most California programs run on the Metropolitan Water District regional base rate, and your retail agency may add to it
- Between 250 and 5,000 square feet per property per year
- Apply and receive approval before removing any turf
Apply and get approval before you remove any grass. This program does not pay retroactively.
The highest opening rate in California, though it steps down to the regional base after the first 1,000 square feet.
Verified 2026-07-28 against the Riverside Public Utilities rebate page. Compare turf rebates.
What to plant in Riverside
The planting palette for zone 9b is shared across California and is set out once, with the genera native to the state, on the California xeriscaping guide. What is specific to Riverside is the money above: Riverside Public Utilities sets what your removed lawn is worth.
What is specific to Riverside is the money: Riverside Public Utilities decides what your removed lawn is worth, and those terms are above.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Riverside, CA offer a turf removal rebate?
Yes. Riverside Public Utilities runs the Residential Turf Replacement, paying $7.00 per square foot on the first 1,000 square feet, then $2.00. You must remove at least 250 square feet to qualify. Full conditions are on the Riverside Public Utilities rebate page.
How much is the Riverside turf rebate actually worth on a typical lawn?
At Riverside Public Utilities's rate of $7.00 per square foot, removing a 600 square foot lawn returns $4,200. A 1,000 square foot lawn returns $7,000.