Drip Irrigation Rebate Program

City of Modesto water customers may be eligible for a rebate when they convert their existing traditional sprinkler system to drip irrigation. The rebate amount may not exceed $1,000 per City of Modesto water account. Funding is limited and applications will be accepted on a first come, first served basis. The City reserves the right to terminate this program at any time and for any reason.

Drip Irrigation eliminates over-watering problems by applying water only where it is needed, with less run-off and less evaporation. The uniform application of water from Drip Irrigation systems can achieve high water savings.

How to Apply

  1. Obtain an application using one of the following methods:
    1. Apply Online
    2. Email
    3. Call Water Division 209-342-2246
  2. If you are not applying online, send completed paper application and the original sales receipt to one of the following:
    1. Mail:  
      City of Modesto Attention:Water Division - Rebate Program
      PO Box 642
      Modesto CA 95353 
    2. Fax: 209-342-4568
    3. Email

A City of Modesto representative may contact you to schedule a brief appointment to verify the installation of the drip irrigation.

Program Guidelines and Participation Section

Who Qualifies?

  • City of Modesto customers who pay a water utility bill to the City of Modesto.
  • Customer accounts that are in good standing.
  • Tenants who provide written approval from the property owner or property manager.

Timeline

  • Program applies to purchases between 7/1/20 thru 6/30/21.
  • A pre-inspection will be scheduled once the application has been received.
  • After approval of pre-inspection, you will have 60 days to complete the conversion of your existing system.
  • Once completed, contact City of Modesto Water Conservation to schedule the post-inspection.
  • An itemized dated sales receipt is required at the post-inspection.
  • If not approved at inspection, you have 30 days to make corrections and to schedule a final inspection.

Drip Irrigation systems (qualifying for rebate)

If converting from existing traditional irrigation system:

  • Customer must replace the entire existing zone to Drip Irrigation.
  • Valves must be fully operational and not leaking.
  • The converted area must be maintained and kept in a healthy condition.

If converting from manual watering of an existing garden hose: 

  • Customer must install an anti-siphon device on the hose faucet.
  • Customer must, at minimum, install a mechanical timer that will shut itself off after a set period of time.

New Irrigation system/method must be rated as follows: 

  • The drip system must be installed per manufacturer’s directions, including filter, plus regulator, if recommended.
  • The system may be installed on the surface or below the surface.
  • Drip emitters, including multi-outlet drippers and bubblers, must have a flow rate of 0.25 gallons per minute (15 gallons per hour) or less.

Rebates

  • Existing Drip Irrigation, drip irrigation installation costs, new construction, accessories, and taxes do not qualify.
  • Rebate checks will be mailed within 8 weeks after completing the rebate process.
  • Rebate amount cannot exceed the purchase price of the products used in the conversion.
  • Rebates are limited to $1,000 per utility billing account per fiscal year (July 1, 2020 – June 30, 2021).

Application and Rebate Approval or Denial

  • On-site compliance verification is required.
  • The original itemized dated sales receipt for the products used in the conversion is required (copies not accepted), Scanned original will be accepted via online submittal only.
  • Incomplete, incorrect or unsigned applications cannot be processed. We will contact you with any discrepancies and may require you to submit a new application.
  • Customer must fulfill all program guidelines to be eligible for rebates.

Other Considerations

  • The Rebate Program is not responsible for materials lost by mail.
  • Submission or possession of a rebate application does not guarantee receiving a rebate.
  • Rebates are processed on a first come, first served basis.
  • Funding for this rebate program is limited to available resources.
  • Rebate amounts are subject to change without notification.
  • This program shall at all times be subject to change or termination without prior notice.