Cash for Grass in Phoenix - Turf Removal Rebate Guide 2026
Maricopa County · Arizona
Phoenix Water Conservation Rebates
Turf removal + xeriscape conversion rebates — amounts vary
Administered by City of Phoenix Water Services
The City of Phoenix runs multiple water conservation rebate programmes through Phoenix Water Services, including turf removal and xeriscape conversion rebates. Specific rebate amounts vary year-over-year based on programme funding and participation — check phoenix.gov/waterservices/conservation for the current rate. Phoenix’s turf removal programme follows the same Phoenix AMA plant list and 50% canopy coverage standard as Chandler. Given Phoenix metro’s position as the largest Central Arizona Project (CAP) water consumer and the most exposed to post-2026 Colorado River cuts, residential turf conversions are actively encouraged by Arizona Department of Water Resources.
Eligibility Rules
- ✓Active Phoenix Water Services account
- ✓Single-family residential (varies for multi-family and commercial)
- ✓Application and approval BEFORE starting work
- ✓Replacement landscape must meet Phoenix AMA plant requirements
- ✓50% canopy coverage at maturity required
How to Apply
- Visit phoenix.gov/waterservices/conservation and review current rebate programmes
- Complete the turf removal rebate application online or by mail
- Submit existing grass photos and proposed landscape plan
- Receive approval letter before starting work
- Complete the conversion per the approved plan
- Submit final photos for post-project review
- Receive rebate check after inspection approval
What Qualifies as Replacement Landscaping
- ✓Plants on the Phoenix AMA Low-Water-Use/Drought-Tolerant Plant List
- ✓Desert trees (Mesquite, Palo Verde, Desert Willow)
- ✓Desert succulents and cacti
- ✓Permeable mulch and decomposed granite
- ✓Drip irrigation replacing spray
What Does NOT Qualify
- ✗Artificial turf
- ✗Concrete or impermeable hardscape
- ✗Non-AMA-listed plants
- ✗Landscapes missing the canopy coverage requirement
- ✗Work started before approval
How Much Can You Actually Save?
Calculation Example:
Check phoenix.gov/waterservices/conservation for the current 2026 rebate rate. A typical 700 sq ft Phoenix front lawn conversion qualifies for the programme; actual rebate depends on current programme funding.
5-Year Water Savings:
700 sq ft of Bermuda grass in Phoenix consumes 42,000–55,000 gallons annually. At Phoenix tiered rates that’s $200–300/year in water cost. Five-year savings: $1,000–1,500. Phoenix’s summer heat (100+ days above 100°F) makes xeriscape conversions especially valuable — desert plants thrive while lawns struggle, reducing maintenance costs by 60–80% as well.