The Town of Queen Creek has launched financial incentives to encourage the removal of traditional grass lawns in favor of desert-friendly landscaping. The initiative aims to reduce outdoor water consumption and support long-term water reliability for the community.
Residential customers within the town’s water service area can receive $2 per square foot for turf removal, with a maximum rebate of $5,000 per property. Participants must convert at least 500 square feet of grass. The program allows for artificial turf up to 1,000 square feet, provided the remaining landscaped area maintains a 30% plant canopy density. Eligible residents must submit an online application including property details, pre-installation photos, an aerial map, and a landscape plan. Rebates are issued only after conservation staff verify the project meets all requirements through pre- and post-inspections.
Non-residential entities, including businesses, schools, and homeowner associations, can also apply for incentives. Qualified applicants may receive $2 per square foot, up to $20,000 annually per property, to replace natural grass with low-water-use plants or limited artificial turf. Funding for these programs comes from the Salt River Project and is distributed on a first-come, first-served basis. Interested parties can contact the town’s conservation team at conserve@queencreekaz.gov or 480-358-3423 for assistance.