Thinking about replacing your lawn or upgrading your irrigation in Los Altos and wondering if rebates can help? You are not alone. Many homeowners want lower water bills, resilient landscaping, and a smooth process from application to inspection. In this guide, you will learn what Valley Water offers, who qualifies, and how to apply without missing a step. Let’s dive in.
Why Los Altos homes qualify
Los Altos residents receive retail water service from California Water Service in the Los Altos Suburban District. Valley Water operates countywide conservation programs that often apply to Los Altos addresses. You should confirm eligibility for your street address in the Valley Water portal before you begin. Start with the program overview to see current offerings and funding windows.
- Check your provider: California Water Service Los Altos Suburban District. (Cal Water Los Altos Suburban District)
- Review countywide rebates and eligibility. (Valley Water Landscape Rebates)
What Valley Water pays
Valley Water offers several outdoor rebates you can stack, subject to program caps and rules.
Lawn conversion rebate
Convert high‑water turf to a water‑wise landscape. The current base residential rate is $2 per square foot, typically capped at $3,000. Funding is available through stated program windows and while funds last, so check current details before you apply. (Landscape Rebates overview)
Irrigation equipment upgrades
Rebates support weather‑based smart controllers, rain or soil sensors, high‑efficiency nozzles, and drip conversions. Qualifying equipment lists and per‑device amounts are provided in the application portal. You can also request a free irrigation survey to identify the most effective upgrades for your yard. (Irrigation equipment rebates and resources)
Graywater laundry‑to‑landscape
Laundry‑to‑landscape systems that reuse washing machine water for plants may qualify for $200 to $400. Projects must meet state and local code. Valley Water provides guidance and sample parts lists to help you plan. (Graywater Rebate)
Rainwater capture
You can apply for rebates for rain barrels, cisterns, and rain gardens. Per‑unit rates and eligibility vary by system size and design, so check the program page for current details and caps. (Rainwater Capture Rebate)
How the process works
Valley Water requires pre‑approval before you start.
- Apply online and submit photos, plans, and plant lists as required.
- Complete the pre‑inspection if requested.
- Wait for your written Notice to Proceed. Do not start demolition or purchase materials before approval.
- Finish work within the specified timeline, typically 90 days.
- Schedule a post‑inspection.
- If approved, your rebate check is usually issued in about 4 to 6 weeks. (Overview of rebate process)
Rules to know
Valley Water enforces permanent outdoor watering prohibitions, including no overhead irrigation between 9 a.m. and 6 p.m., no irrigation within 48 hours after significant rainfall, and no runoff. Your retail provider may add stage‑based watering limits. Check both Valley Water advisories and any Cal Water updates before you program your controller. (Water waste rules and reporting)
Permits and HOA considerations
Simple rain barrels typically do not need permits. Larger cisterns, pumped systems, below‑ground tanks, or any connection to potable supplies often require permits and inspections. Contact the City of Los Altos building department and your HOA for project approvals and any design standards that apply.
AB 1572 is a state law that phases in a ban on using potable water for “nonfunctional turf” at public properties, commercial and industrial sites, and HOA common areas. It does not ban lawns at single‑family homes, but it is shaping HOA planning and common‑area upgrades. If you are in an HOA, ask about timelines and any turf‑replacement plans. (AB 1572 bill text)
Plan your drought‑smart yard
A little planning will help you maximize savings and stay compliant.
- Confirm your water provider and any local stage rules. (Cal Water Los Altos Suburban District)
- Read the program overview and create your application before purchasing materials. (Landscape Rebates overview)
- Request a free Water Wise Outdoor survey to pinpoint high‑value changes. (Irrigation surveys and tools)
- Use Valley Water’s design resources to select climate‑appropriate plants and layouts that keep curb appeal high. (Landscape guides and resources)
Maximize your rebate value
- Combine measures. Pair turf conversion with smart controllers, drip, and high‑efficiency nozzles to capture multiple incentives, subject to caps.
- Apply early. Pre‑approval protects your eligibility and helps you schedule inspections without delaying the project.
- Document everything. Keep receipts, plant lists, product model numbers, and progress photos for a smooth post‑inspection.
- Track caps and funding windows. Residential projects commonly cap at $3,000 for turf conversion, and funding is first come, first served. (Landscape Rebates overview)
Timeline and budget expectations
Most landscape projects must be completed within 90 days after your Notice to Proceed. After your post‑inspection is approved, rebate checks typically arrive in 4 to 6 weeks. Laundry‑to‑landscape systems often cost around $1,500 to $3,000 when installed by a contractor, and the $200 to $400 rebate can offset part of that investment. Funding windows, including those currently listed through June 30, 2026, can change, so check the program site before you start. (Rebate process overview)
When you are ready to align your yard upgrades with your home goals, local market insight can help you make smart choices. Thoughtful design, plant selection, and irrigation controls can reduce maintenance while preserving curb appeal for future resale. If you are weighing which improvements will resonate with Mid‑Peninsula buyers, connect for a tailored consultation.
Ready to explore options for your Los Altos home or prep for market? Reach out to Stephanie Von Thaden for local guidance that pairs smart upgrades with strategic real estate decisions.
FAQs
How do Valley Water turf rebates work in Los Altos?
- Valley Water pays a base $2 per square foot for approved lawn conversion, typically up to $3,000, with pre‑approval required before any work begins. (Landscape Rebates overview)
Do Cal Water customers qualify for these rebates?
- Most Los Altos addresses are eligible, but you should confirm by entering your street address in Valley Water’s application portal or contacting the conservation hotline. (Landscape Rebates overview)
Can I start work before I apply for a rebate?
- No. You must apply and receive a written Notice to Proceed from Valley Water or your project will likely be ineligible. (Rebate process overview)
How long does it take to receive rebate funds?
- After your post‑inspection is approved, checks are typically issued within about 4 to 6 weeks. (Rebate process overview)
What outdoor watering rules should I follow?
- Valley Water enforces permanent rules such as no overhead irrigation between 9 a.m. and 6 p.m., no watering within 48 hours after significant rain, and no runoff; check for any Cal Water stage limits too. (Water waste rules)
Do I need permits for rainwater or graywater systems?
- Simple rain barrels often do not need permits, but larger cisterns, pumped systems, and any connection to potable lines may require permits, so contact the City of Los Altos building department before you start.
Does AB 1572 affect my single‑family lawn?
- AB 1572 targets potable irrigation of nonfunctional turf at public, commercial, industrial, and HOA common areas and does not ban lawns at single‑family homes. (AB 1572 bill text)
