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Limited time offer!
Only landscape projects started after September 21, 2009 are eligible for rebates.
Program ends when all available rebates have been awarded,
or Dec. 31, 2009, whichever comes first.
What if you could eliminate your landscape’s need for water? Enter hardscape. Wood decks, flagstone or paver patios, and crushed granite areas are all examples of pervious hardscape. Converting existing turf to any one of these could earn you a $150 credit on your water bill.
To qualify for the Turf-to-Hardscape rebate, you must:
- Be a SAWS water customer (sewer-only customers not eligible)
- Complete the Drought Recovery Toolkit Turf-to-Hardscape rebate application
- Attach before and after photos of the converted landscape. Photos must clearly show conversion of turf areas to pervious hardscape.
- Convert a minimum of 500 square feet of turf to a pervious hardscape (10-foot minimum width)
- Only landscape projects started after September 21, 2009 are eligible for rebates.
- Submit original dated receipts for primary material used in your new hardscape (copies not accepted)
 What is pervious hardscape?
Pervious hardscape is a patio or deck constructed to allow rain to penetrate the surface to the ground below. Examples are flagstone set in sand, decomposed granite, or a wood deck built over the ground.
What about concrete or other solid, non-porous surfaces?
Patios or other surfaces made of concrete, mortar, or asphalt are not pervious and therefore not eligible for the rebate.
How much is the rebate?
The rebate is $150 and applied as a credit on your water bill.
Is there a maximum amount?
There is no upper limit on the size of pervious hardscape you install, but the rebate amount of $150 does not change.
Why do I have to include a photo?
The before and after photos you’re submitting are to document the replacement of an area that was turf with a pervious hardscape. SAWS may also conduct an inspection to verify the work performed.
How do I get my rebate?
Complete the application form and return with your original receipts after all work has been completed to:
San Antonio Water System
ATTN: Conservation Turf-to-Hardscape Rebate
P.O. Box 2449
San Antonio, Texas 78298-2449
When will I get my rebate?
Once the documentation has been processed, you will receive a credit on your water bill. Typically, this is done within two billing cycles.
How long will the rebate program last?
The program is limited. It will run until December 31, 2009 or until the rebate budget runs out. If your date of purchase receipt is on or before the date the program closes (as posted on SAWS Web site), your application will be processed.
What if I want to keep my original receipts?
You may include a self-addressed stamped envelope with your application and SAWS will mail your receipts back to you. You may also bring your receipts to the Conservation Department at SAWS, 2800 U.S. Hwy 281 North. Conservation staff will make a copy and return the original to you.
What if there’s grass where I want hardscape?
It’s best to remove the grass and dig down into the existing soil where you plan to install permanent hardscape. This preps the area for the pervious base material that serves as the foundation for decorative rocks, crushed granite or pavers. The base also acts as an excellent weed barrier.
Can I use artificial turf as my hardscape?
SAWS would consider artificial turf as hardscape only if it’s pervious to water. You would have to submit a product sample and evidence from the manufacturer that water can flow through it. Additionally, manufacturer’s information would also have to show that it does not require any irrigation to remain sound. Be sure to check with your homeowners or neighborhood association before installing artificial turf.
How much does hardscape cost?
Prices vary greatly depending on the type of material you choose and how much you’re able to do yourself.
Can I complete the work myself?
Yes, you certainly may do it yourself. Keep a clean, legible record of your purchases. Check out do-it-yourself resources and pay special attention to drainage issues. Also, the base of a hardscape determines how well it holds up and whether or not weeds will penetrate it over the long-term.
How much material must I purchase?
You must purchase enough to complete at least 500 square feet of hardscape with a minimum width of 10 feet.
Can I get a rebate for expanding a patio or deck?
You can receive a rebate for additional pervious hardscape. Simply document the expansion with photos and dated receipts to show that it’s an expansion that has been built in accordance with the rules of the rebate.
Do driveways, sidewalks and pathways count?
No, these are considered functional components of the residential landscape and generally would never be planted with turf.
Can I get more than one rebate?
This is a limited time rebate offer. To allow for as many people as possible to participate, the rebate is limited to one per customer.
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