Still watering a thirsty lawn in Orinda? If you’re looking to cut your water use and keep your yard beautiful, the East Bay has real money on the table to help you convert turf to low‑water landscaping. You can lower bills, refresh curb appeal, and tap into local rebates with a simple plan. This guide walks you through what’s available for Orinda homes, who qualifies, and how to apply without missing a step. Let’s dive in.
Why water‑wise in Orinda
Orinda is served by East Bay Municipal Utility District (EBMUD), which operates a local treatment plant and administers the primary turf‑conversion rebates here. You can confirm EBMUD’s role in the area on the utility’s water treatment page that includes Orinda among its service areas (EBMUD water quality and treatment).
Replacing traditional lawn with climate‑appropriate plants saves potable water and can qualify for cash rebates. If you live in an HOA or manage common areas, California’s AB 1572 is phasing out potable irrigation for non‑functional turf starting in 2027, so planning conversions now can help you stay ahead (AB 1572 overview).
Current rebates for Orinda yards
EBMUD Lawn Conversion Rebate
- What it pays: $1 per sq. ft. standard or $2 per sq. ft. for the super rebate. Residential caps are $2,000 per property in any 24‑month period (EBMUD lawn conversion details).
- How to qualify for the super rate: sheet‑mulch in place, add compost, use a majority of California native and low‑water plants, and plant in the cool season (September to February).
- Key rules: Apply and get written approval before any work. Finish within nine months of approval. Convert or remove spray irrigation in the project area, install drip where needed, and ensure at least 50% living plant cover at maturity. Artificial turf is not eligible.
- Payment and taxes: EBMUD typically processes checks in about two months after final approval. If total rebates are $600 or more in a calendar year, EBMUD will request a W‑9 and may issue a 1099 per IRS rules (consult your tax advisor).
Design help and extra savings
- EBMUD offers a $200 Landscape Design Assistance reimbursement for a two‑hour consult with approved designers when your project is completed (EBMUD design assistance).
- You may also find mulch coupons, graywater rebates, and other conservation offers (EBMUD rebates and coupons).
If your water provider isn’t EBMUD
Most Orinda addresses are in EBMUD’s service area. If you’re unsure, confirm your account before applying (EBMUD contact). Nearby Contra Costa addresses may qualify for Contra Costa Water District’s Lawn to Garden Rebate at $1 per sq. ft. up to $2,000 for single‑family homes (CCWD Lawn to Garden).
Step‑by‑step: How to claim your rebate
- Confirm your water agency. Most Orinda homes are with EBMUD. If unsure, verify before you apply (EBMUD contact).
- Measure and document. Calculate the square footage of lawn to convert and take clear photos from multiple angles.
- Apply and wait. Submit your application and do not start removal until you receive written approval (EBMUD lawn conversion details).
- Choose your path. Decide between the standard or super rebate. Super requires sheet‑mulch, compost, and mostly California native plants installed September to February.
- Plan irrigation. Remove or cap spray heads in the project area and install efficient drip with a pressure regulator and filter if needed.
- Install per rules. Use low‑water plants and at least 3 inches of organic mulch. Avoid non‑biodegradable weed cloth; hardscape must be permeable.
- Keep records. Save receipts for plants and materials and take completion photos.
- Submit for final approval. EBMUD typically issues checks about two months after final sign‑off.
Timelines and pro tips
- Project window: You have nine months to complete work after approval (EBMUD lawn conversion details).
- Best planting season: Aim for September to February to leverage rainfall and qualify for the super rebate.
- Establishment watering: New plants usually need regular watering for one to two seasons, then far less once established.
- Watch for funding boosts: State and regional grants sometimes increase rebate amounts or add special incentives, often for commercial sites. Keep an eye on announcements (state funding news).
- Extra design help: If you want a pro plan, use EBMUD’s approved designers to access the $200 consult reimbursement (EBMUD design assistance).
HOA and commercial notes
If you manage an HOA or commercial property, plan ahead. AB 1572 phases out potable irrigation of non‑functional turf on many public, commercial, and HOA common‑area landscapes beginning in 2027 (AB 1572 overview). EBMUD also offers programs and guidance for non‑residential sites to support conversions and efficient irrigation upgrades (EBMUD Watersmart programs).
Quick checklist
- Confirm EBMUD as your provider and account status.
- Measure the area and take pre‑project photos.
- Apply and wait for written approval.
- Decide standard vs. super rebate.
- Convert spray to drip and plan plant groupings by water needs.
- Install low‑water plants, compost (for super), and 3 inches of mulch.
- Keep receipts and take completion photos.
- Submit documents promptly for reimbursement.
- For design help, leverage EBMUD’s $200 consult.
- Browse design ideas and resources at a statewide hub like LawntoGarden.org.
Ready to transform your Orinda yard?
A water‑wise landscape can cut your water use, simplify maintenance, and boost curb appeal. If you’re planning updates before selling or just want trusted local guidance, connect with Michael Lane to discuss options and timing. Our team knows East Bay neighborhoods and can connect you with the right pros to get it done smoothly.
FAQs
Can Orinda homeowners use EBMUD’s lawn conversion rebate?
- Yes. Orinda is in EBMUD’s service area, and eligible single‑family projects can receive $1 per sq. ft. or $2 per sq. ft. for super projects, subject to program rules and caps (EBMUD lawn conversion details).
What is the most common mistake when applying?
Is artificial turf eligible for EBMUD rebates?
How long do I have to finish after approval?
What if I’m in an HOA with lawn rules?
- You still need HOA approval where required. Separately, AB 1572 phases out potable irrigation for non‑functional turf on many HOA common areas starting in 2027, so planning ahead is wise (AB 1572 overview).
Are there resources to help with design?
- Yes. EBMUD’s Landscape Design Assistance Program reimburses $200 for a two‑hour consult with approved designers when your project is completed (EBMUD design assistance).
