How much does it cost to convert a landscape to a California Friendly landscape?
Your new garden can range from less than $5 per sq. ft. up to $20 per sq. ft., depending on whether you do all of the work yourself, tackle some part of it on your own, or have it all done professionally. The choice is yours. My lawn has been dead for several months. Do I still qualify for the program?
If your lawn is dead but still in place, we will consider your project for the Incentive program. If you have initiated or completed the lawn to garden transformation, you are not eligible.

What plants can be used for this program?
Plants can be chosen from over 1,500 plants listed on the two following websites:

• Los Angeles Coast Water Wise Gardening
• BeWaterWise.com/Garden Soft

Any plant not listed on these two websites requires pre-approval by the LBWD.

If I replace plants other than turf, will these qualify for the rebate?
No, the specific purpose of this incentive is to assist Long Beach residents to get rid of that water-thirsty lawn. Can I use traditional turf grass as part of my new landscape?
Your new landscape cannot contain any turf grass, or artificial or synthetic turf. How much plant material needs to be planted?
Plant material must cover at least 65% of the new landscaped area by the time the plants are mature, or after approximately two years. Is mulch required between plants?
Yes, mulch helps prevent runoff and holds moisture in the soil. Your new landscape must be 100% covered with materials such as plants, compost and mulch, and permeable “hardscape”. Do I have to replace my irrigation system?
Your irrigation system must be an efficient system, as described on the Design Page. This essentially means you must use drip, bubblers, mp rotators, or hand water. Additional rebates may be available at www.socalwatersmart.com for rotators and irrigation controllers. I live in a homeowners association (HOA) and do not have an individual LBWD account. Can I still qualify for the program?
If it is a common area that will be re-landscaped the HOA will need to apply. If it is your personal area of the complex then you may be eligible to apply under the “Other Multi Family” section of the Terms and Conditions. How do I effectively kill my lawn?
Take a look at the Resources Page, or click here for instructions.

When will I receive the rebate?
Payments will typically be made within approximately 45 calendar days after LBWD has been notified that the landscape installation was complete and given final approval

Can you recommend a landscape contractor?
We cannot recommend particular contractors, and instead suggest that you read through the online quiz. You will find a great deal of helpful information there. Your best bet is to look around your neighborhood and find a drought tolerant garden that you like. Ask the owner of that property which landscaping contractor they used and what their experience was. Alternatively, if you use one of our design consultants, they can give you suggestions from contractors they have worked with. And lastly, check out the yellow pages to find a local contractor that specializes in drought tolerant landscapes.