Smart Irrigation Rebate

Smart Irrigation Rebate Details*

We offer residential Tacoma Water customers a rebate of 50% (up to $100) of the purchase price of any qualifying WaterSense hose faucet timer or smart irrigation controller and/or add-on or plug-in device. The rebate is available whether you install it yourself or hire a contractor to do the work.

A variety of hose timers and smart controllers are eligible for a rebate. Multiple hose timers that link together or multiple controllers that are needed to cover your entire property are eligible, but you must apply for the rebate all at once. **

The rebate is limited to one per residential household, up to $100 total.

The rebate is available whether you install it yourself or hire a contractor to do the work.

Rebate Requirements

• Hose timer, or smart controller and/or add-on or plug-in must be listed on the EPA’s WaterSense product  search page.
• Proof of purchase of controllers that do not have smart technology built-in must be paired with the proof of purchase of a compatible WaterSense labelled product plug-in or add-on.

Not eligible: Irrigation controllers without smart technology or a weather sensor added on or plugged in.

How to Apply for a Rebate

Applications will only be accepted within 90 days after installation is complete.

The name on the rebate application must be associated with an active Tacoma Water account but does not need to be the account owner.

• Simply fill out our Smart Irrigation Rebate Application.
• Attach a copy of the purchase invoice(s)/receipt(s). Your proof of purchase should include:

1. 1. Date of purchase and/or date of shipping.
   2. Retailer name.
   3. Purchase price independent of taxes and shipping fees.
   4. Product name, including description or model number.

• Click the “Submit” button.
• You will be notified by email within two (2) weeks if your application is approved or if we need more information.
  • If approved, you will receive an email from DocuSign requesting your signature on the rebate agreement.
  • If the application is incomplete or if you are not eligible, you will receive an email from conservation@cityoftacoma.org with next steps, if any.
• After you sign and submit the agreement via DocuSign, allow 8-12 weeks for the rebate to appear on your Tacoma Water account.

Smart Irrigation FAQs

What do you mean by irrigation?

Irrigation is defined as automated water application to a landscape or yard to help plants grow. This could be a sprinkler system, drip irrigation system, soaker system, or other automated watering system.                                                                               

What is a smart irrigation controller?

A smart controller automatically adjusts the watering schedule based local weather data, soil, and plant types to create a customized watering schedule. Some smart controllers respond to a small weather sensor installed on your property while others get information from local weather stations. Some smart controllers are Wi-Fi enabled and connect to your mobile device. Smartphone users can access, operate and monitor their irrigation system from anywhere.

How does it work?

Weather-based controllers use local evapotranspiration (ET) data to determine irrigation requirements and the watering schedule. As ET values change in response to temperature, wind, humidity, and sunlight so does a plant’s need for water. As ET values increase and plants require more water, the controller uses this information to add more time to the schedule. Smart controllers also use site factors such as microclimate, plant type, soil type, slope, and method of irrigation to inform the watering schedule.

How much water can I save?

EPA estimates that 50% of water used in residential landscapes is wasted due to inefficient irrigation systems and methods.  Irrigation control technologies can significantly reduce overwatering by applying water only when plants need it. Your actual water savings will depend upon your irrigation system efficiency.  However, replacing a standard clock timer with a WaterSense labeled smart irrigation controller can save an average home nearly 7,600 gallons of water annually.

What is an irrigation zone?

An area of an irrigation system controlled by a single valve and served by similar sprinkler types. Zones are usually chosen by grouping similar soil types, plants with similar water requirements, and/or similar exposure to sunlight. Irrigation controllers are capable of managing a certain number of zones (often 4, 8, or 16.) You may or may not have all zones active depending on how your system is laid out. There is no minimum zone requirement for this rebate.

Where can I buy a smart irrigation controller?

Eligible products could be available at irrigation supply stores, home improvement stores, and online retailers. Be sure the product appears on the EPA’s WaterSense Products List.

How much is the rebate?

Tacoma Water customers can receive a rebate of 50% (up to $100) of the purchase price of any qualifying WaterSense smart irrigation controller and/or add-on or plug-in device.

Who installs smart irrigation controllers?

They can be installed by a contractor or by the home owner/resident.

Can I get more than one smart irrigation controller rebate?

No. Program is limited to one rebate per metered account.

Can I get a rebate on more than one controller or timer?

Yes, if the controllers or timers serve one yard and you submit them together in a single rebate application.

Do you offer a rebate for hose faucet timers?

Yes, if they are a WaterSense product.

Can someone who rents their home receive this rebate?

Yes, renters who are residential Tacoma Water customers are eligible for this rebate.

How long after installation do I have to submit the rebate application?

Applications are accepted up to a maximum of 90 days after installation.  Product purchase date may be more than 90 days prior to application date.

Can I apply for a rebate before I install it?

No. A date of installation is needed to process your rebate application.

Will I get a rebate check in the mail?

No. This rebate will appear as a credit on your Tacoma Public Utilities account 8-12 weeks after processing.

Can businesses receive this rebate?

Yes, we offer businesses who are Tacoma Water customers a rebate for commercial properties.

Is there a paper application process?

Yes. Customers who do not have an email address can call 253-502-8723 or visit the TPU lobby to obtain a paper copy of the application. The rebate will be applied to the account as an account credit and no check will be mailed.

Who can I contact with additional questions?

For more information, please call 253-502-8723 or email.