Hermosa Homeowners: Tap West Basin Turf Rebates

Thinking about swapping your thirsty lawn for a coastal‑friendly landscape and getting paid to do it? If you live in Hermosa Beach, you may qualify for cash rebates to replace turf with water‑smart plants and efficient irrigation. You save on water, boost curb appeal, and reduce maintenance. This guide shows you what’s available, how to qualify, the steps to apply, and the local permit tips you should know. Let’s dive in.

West Basin turf rebates at a glance

West Basin Municipal Water District funds turf‑replacement incentives and processes applications through the regional SoCal Water$mart portal. Hermosa Beach is in West Basin’s service area, so you can apply if your property meets program rules. You can confirm service area status on the district’s resources for customers in West Basin’s territory.

Rebate levels have varied by promotion. West Basin has historically advertised a baseline around $3 per square foot, with enhanced offers like Grass Replacement+ around $5 per square foot in select areas. A temporary $6 offer ran in spring 2025 and ended June 30, 2025. Because funding changes, verify the current dollar amount on West Basin’s current program page before you apply. You can also review SoCal Water$mart terms for up‑to‑date rules and timelines.

Some projects can add a separate tree incentive often described as $100 per tree for up to five trees when paired with turf replacement. Check the latest West Basin information for stackable offers.

• Check current West Basin program details and any free design offerings on the Grass Replacement page: West Basin program overview
• Review regional rules and application terms: SoCal Water$mart Turf Replacement Terms & Conditions

Who qualifies and what projects need

Service area and timing

• Your property must be in West Basin’s service area and your account must be eligible.
• Apply and receive a reservation (Letter to Proceed) before removing any grass. Projects started early do not qualify.
• Only existing, living turf is eligible. Dead or bare areas typically do not qualify.

Design and installation basics

• Replace or modify overhead spray irrigation to a more efficient method (such as drip or bubblers). You will need to show this in your plan.
• Include a stormwater retention or infiltration feature, like a rain garden, dry well, permeable hardscape, or rain barrels.
• Some programs specify a minimum number of plants per square foot. Check the current terms before finalizing your plant list.
• Synthetic turf is not eligible.

Documents to prepare

• Clear before photos of the living turf area you will replace.
• A simple site plan showing square footage, plantings, irrigation changes, and the stormwater feature.
• Recent water bill, proof of property ownership or permission if you are a renter, and later invoices/receipts for the final rebate.

For rules and documentation details, see the SoCal Water$mart terms and West Basin’s program overview.

How to apply: step‑by‑step

1. Confirm eligibility and today’s rebate level on West Basin’s Grass Replacement page. Then review the SoCal Water$mart terms so you understand the rules.
2. Measure your lawn area, take clear before photos, and draft a simple plan with irrigation updates and a stormwater feature.
3. Submit your application to reserve funds through SoCal Water$mart. Do not remove any turf until you receive written approval.
4. After you receive your reservation, complete the project within the time window stated in your approval.
5. Schedule your post‑installation inspection, submit final photos and invoices, and complete any required forms.
6. Receive your rebate after verification. Processing times can vary, so plan for a multi‑month timeline from start to payment. Check the SoCal Water$mart page for current timing.

Review application rules and timing here: SoCal Water$mart Terms & Conditions.

Hermosa Beach permits and local rules

If your turf conversion includes the public strip between the sidewalk and curb (the parkway), Hermosa Beach treats that area as public right‑of‑way.

• Parkway trees: Planting, pruning, or removing a parkway tree requires a city permit. Some removals need Public Works Commission approval.
• Right‑of‑way work: Any work affecting the sidewalk, curb, driveway apron, or parkway usually requires an encroachment/right‑of‑way permit.

Check requirements and contact Public Works early in your planning: Hermosa Beach Public Works permits.

Other considerations:

• HOAs and CC&Rs: Get written approval if your property is governed by an HOA. HOA rules can affect plant choices, materials, and visible design elements.
• Coastal or historic areas: Some parcels may require extra review. When in doubt, contact Community Development/Planning via the city website.
• DIY vs contractor: Many homeowners install projects themselves, but irrigation and drainage work often benefits from a licensed C‑27 landscape contractor. Keep all receipts for rebate documentation.

How much you could save

Your savings depend on the current per‑square‑foot rate and your project size. Here are simple examples for illustration. Always verify the active rate before you apply on the West Basin program page.

• At $3 per square foot: 1,000 sq ft converted could yield about $3,000 back.
• At $5 per square foot: 1,000 sq ft could yield about $5,000 back.

Past promotions have included higher amounts for limited periods, and programs may cap total project rebates. Some applicants also stack a tree incentive when available. Review West Basin’s announcements for caps and any bonus offers.

Rebates lower your net cost, but they usually do not cover all design or hardscape expenses. Many homeowners also see ongoing water‑bill savings after converting to efficient irrigation and climate‑appropriate planting.

Pro tips for a smooth rebate

• Apply first. The reservation approval is your green light to start.
• Photograph everything. Take wide and close‑up before photos and organized after photos.
• Plan your irrigation and stormwater feature early so they pass inspection.
• Choose water‑smart plants that meet the minimum plant coverage requirement.
• Confirm HOA approval and city permits before you schedule work.
• Keep invoices and submit them promptly after installation.

Ready to transform your yard?

A smart turf conversion can boost curb appeal and cut water use, which supports both your lifestyle and long‑term property value. If you are weighing which upgrades make the most sense before a sale or refinance, connect with Baharian Group for practical, market‑driven guidance on value‑add improvements.

FAQs

How do West Basin turf rebates work for Hermosa Beach homeowners?

• West Basin funds incentives and applications run through SoCal Water$mart. You apply, receive a reservation, complete a compliant landscape conversion, pass inspection, and then receive payment. See the program overview and terms.

Do I need a permit to change landscaping in the parkway in Hermosa Beach?

• Yes. Work in the public right‑of‑way, including parkway trees, typically requires permits from Public Works. Review requirements on the city’s permits page.

Can I use artificial turf and still get the rebate?

• No. Synthetic turf is not eligible under the SoCal Water$mart Turf Replacement program. See the terms and conditions.

How long does it take to get paid after installation?

• Timelines vary with volume. Expect a multi‑month process from application to payment, with several weeks between final inspection and rebate disbursement. Check the latest timing in the SoCal Water$mart terms.

What if my lawn is already dead or patchy?

• Only existing, living turf is typically eligible. Dead or bare areas usually do not qualify. Confirm eligibility in the SoCal Water$mart program rules.

Can I stack a tree rebate with a turf‑replacement rebate?

• Often yes. West Basin materials reference a separate tree incentive that can be paired with turf replacement. Check current stackable offers on West Basin’s program page.