The Phoenix Water Services Department is launching new financial incentives to help non-residential customers conserve water and save money by removing non-functional grass and converting to desert landscaping.

Non-residential customers can begin the application process by visiting the Non-Residential Grass Removal Program webpage.  Applications will be accepted on a first-come, first-serve basis while funding lasts.

"Phoenix is committed to leading the way in water conservation. This new incentive program is yet another significant step we’re taking towards realizing our vision of a more resilient city,” stated Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego in a news release. "By encouraging non-residential customers to replace non-functional grass with desert landscaping, we will not only be able to conserve vital water resources but also create an environmentally conscious urban environment for future generations to enjoy."

The Phoenix Water Services Department is launching new financial incentives to help non-residential customers conserve water and save money by removing non-functional grass and converting to desert landscaping. (Courtesy city of Phoenix)

Key Highlights of the Incentive Program

• Non-residential customers can receive $2 per square foot of grass removed, up to a project total of $250,000 per site, by converting to low water use, desert-adapted landscapes.
• A minimum of 1,000 square feet of grass must be removed to qualify for the incentive.
• The removed grass area must be replaced with a minimum of 50% live plant coverage at maturity per City of Phoenix Planning & Development requirements.
• The final irrigation system must be drip-automatic.

Eligibility and Application Process

The program is open to non-residential customers that are participants of a City of Phoenix Business Water Consultation or an HOA Water Efficiency Check-Up with Phoenix Water Services staff. Applicants will need to submit all documents to the Conservation Inbox (conservation@phoenix.gov). Detailed instructions and requirements are available by visiting the Non-Residential Grass Removal Program webpage. 

To receive the incentive, customers must complete the conversion within six months of the date of the issuance of the Notice to Proceed. City staff asks customers not to begin the conversion without the approval from the Phoenix Water Services Department.

(Projects larger than 125,000 square feet will be considered on a case-by-case basis.)

Eligible costs that meet Planning Department landscape plan requirements and fall under the grass removal incentive include:

• Necessary plants and landscape materials.
• Labor for installation.
• Cost of conversion to drip irrigation systems.

"Our Non-Residential Grass Removal Program is a win-win for businesses and the environment,” stated Cynthia Campbell, Water Resources Management Advisor. "Incentivizing the switch to low water use landscaping helps our non-residential customers reduce their water footprint significantly. This initiative reflects our dedication to preserving Phoenix's precious water resources while supporting our community's sustainable growth."

Opting for desert landscaping is one of the most important things Phoenix customers can do to save water. By converting to desert plants, customers can save as much as 55 gallons of water per square foot of grass every year. The City is committed to sustainable living and will roll out the next phase of this financial incentive for residential customers as early as January 2025. 

Financial Disbursement

Applications will be accepted on a first-come, first-serve basis while funding lasts. Qualified applicants will receive their incentive in the form of a check, mailed to the address on file for their City Services Bill. Please allow up to 60 days to receive the check. 

For more information, FAQs, or to begin the application process, non-residential customers are encouraged to visit the Non-Residential Grass Removal Program webpage.

Editor's note: The above was republished from a city of Phoenix news release.