Fresno lawn to garden rebates
Property owners who get metered water from the City of Fresno can apply to the city's Expanded Lawn to Garden Rebate. Check that your water bill comes from the City of Fresno. The lawn must be in the front yard or visible to the public, and at least 200 square feet. Renters need the owner to sign the city's permission form.
The city's page lists $4 per square foot, on up to 10,000 square feet for homes. The city says this is a temporary, grant-funded amount, paid first come, first served, only while funds remain. Amounts and funding can change, so confirm with the city before you start.
The city's stated deadline: applications must get City approval to begin a project no later than December 31, 2026. The city also says approval does not guarantee the funds will still be available when your project is done.
Lawn to Garden RebateEligibility, terms, and FAQsApply in WaterWebApply before you start
Apply through your WaterWeb customer portal. A City of Fresno Landscape Water Conservation Specialist then schedules a required consultation. Keep your lawn in place until the city approves your project. Projects started before approval are not eligible. When you finish, you complete a questionnaire and a city inspection.
Plan your new garden
Plants must cover at least 33% of the converted area at maturity. Use low-water, drought-tolerant, or California native plants. Include at least one tree, existing or new. Use drip irrigation with a pressure regulator and filter, and cap old spray irrigation below grade. Cover bare soil with 3 to 4 inches of mulch. Rock, pavers, boulders, and gravel can cover no more than 35% of the area, and decomposed granite no more than 25%. No turf grass or artificial turf. Concrete, decks, patios, and sheds do not count toward the rebated area.
Free resources
The city offers a free landscape consultation. Its Water-Wise Gardening site has plant lists, design templates, and do-it-yourself guides.
Water-Wise Gardening Fresno RegionGarden design and irrigation guidesYour optional Designscape plan
Want a custom design-only plan for your new front yard? Designscape can lay out plants, the required tree, and mulch areas for your yard. Our design-only plan costs $2,500, paid in four 25% installments of $625. An irrigation plan is optional for $250. Installation is not included. Hiring Designscape is optional.
Questions? Call Claire at (858) 258-9595 or email support@designscape.com.