When the St. Johns River Water Management District (District) launched its Water Conservation Rebate Program in January 2024, the goal was simple: make it easier for communities to conserve water and protect local resources; together.
Across the District’s 18 counties, water connects neighborhoods, businesses and natural systems. By offering financial support for practical, proven conservation upgrades, the program empowers local governments, small utilities, homeowner associations (HOA), property owner associations and multi-family properties, to take meaningful action without shouldering the full cost alone.
The District provides rebates covering up to 50% of eligible project costs, including labor and installation, with applicants eligible to receive up to $10,000 per year. The program is supported by $50,000 in total funding, and projects are approved on a first-come, first-served basis, reinforcing the shared commitment to act now to maximize available funding.
New this year, the program expanded to include indoor fixture retrofits for private and public multi-family properties, as well as single-family homes through locally administered programs. From upgrading older toilets, sinks and showerheads to high-efficiency models, to HOAs improving neighborhood irrigation systems, cities increasing efficiency at public housing properties, and builders committing to high-efficiency standards in new construction, each project helps save water, reduce utility costs and contribute to a stronger, more water-wise community.
“The strength of this program is partnership,” said Kraig McLane, District’s water conservation coordinator. “When we work alongside our local governments, utilities and community associations, we’re able to make conservation improvements that benefit residents directly. These upgrades not only reduce water use, they help lower costs and protect our water resources for the long term.”
The rebate program supports a wide range of projects designed to make conservation achievable and impactful:
- Florida Water StarSM certification for new residential construction
- S. Environmental Protection Agency WaterSense®-labeled smart irrigation controllers
- Irrigation conversions to high-efficiency rotary nozzles or micro-irrigation
- Irrigation evaluations and timer modifications
- Landscape soil amendments for new residential construction
- Indoor plumbing fixture retrofits
- H2OSAV subscription services
The response to the program has been overwhelmingly positive. Due to high demand, the District has temporarily halted submission of new qualification applications while staff assess the program and prepare for a potential reopening later this year or October 1, 2026. That enthusiasm underscores just how committed local partners are to protecting water resources and reducing unnecessary water use. So, prepare now to apply soon.
The application process is straightforward. After reviewing the Water Conservation Cost-Share Rebate Handbook, applicants complete a qualification step, enter into a cost-share agreement once approved, and submit documentation for reimbursement after project completion. Clear steps and defined fiscal year timelines help ensure transparency and accountability for public funds.
By investing alongside its partners, the District is helping turn everyday conservation efforts into lasting impact — lowering costs, improving efficiency and protecting vital water resources across the region.
For questions or to discuss future rebate ideas, interested partners may contact Kraig McLane at kmclane@sjrwmd.com or Gretchen Smith at gcsmith@sjrwmd.com.
