Save Water at Home: Marin Rebates That Actually Pay

You can lower your water bill, boost your home’s value, and get cash back. Marin homeowners leave money on the table when they do not use local water rebates. Here is how to target the upgrades that pay fast, stack incentives correctly, and document the work so buyers see the value.

Know your water district

Marin County has more than one water provider. Rules and rebate amounts change by agency, so start here before you buy anything.

• Marin Water serves most central and southern Marin. See current programs on the Marin Water rebates page.
• North Marin Water District serves Novato and parts of West Marin. Its programs and amounts differ. Check the NMWD rebate page.

Tip: Check your water bill or account portal to confirm which agency serves your address.

Fastest payback upgrades

Below is a practical ranking for Marin based on utility programs and EPA guidance. Actual savings depend on your yard size, plumbing, and habits.

Smart irrigation controllers

This is often the quickest win. Marin Water customers can access partner discounts on models like Rachio, and Marin also lists a WaterSense controller rebate up to $100 (some controller offers cannot be combined). WaterSense reports about 7,600 to 15,000 gallons saved per year for typical homes. Using a simple Tier 1 example, 7,600 gallons is roughly $100 per year in avoided charges, so your net cost can pay back in under a year to a few years depending on the discount you receive and how much of your use is outdoor. See Marin’s offer details on Irrigation Controllers and savings guidance from EPA WaterSense.

Key takeaway: smart controllers deliver big outdoor savings at low net cost.

Efficient sprinkler hardware

High efficiency nozzles, pressure regulated spray bodies, and rotor upgrades are inexpensive and can cut runoff and overspray. Material costs are often modest, and you can pair them with a smart controller for compounding savings.

Flume leak monitor

Marin customers can buy a Flume whole home monitor at a deep discount through the utility portal. It alerts you to abnormal use and silent leaks. If it catches a running toilet or irrigation leak early, it can save hundreds quickly. Check availability on the Marin Water rebates page.

Hot water recirculation

Marin offers an up to $50 rebate on approved hot water recirculating systems. Savings vary widely by home. On demand controls generally perform better than continuous pumps. See the current terms and application for Hot Water Recirculating Systems.

Cash for Grass lawn replacement

Marin’s Cash for Grass pays up to $4.68 per square foot for best practice projects with pre approval and caps. Conversions reduce long term outdoor use and maintenance, and the landscape refresh shows well at resale. Review details and caps on Cash for Grass.

Rain capture and graywater

Rain barrels and cisterns earn per gallon rebates, and laundry to landscape graywater kits may be discounted. These have larger up front effort but can deliver meaningful lifetime savings.

How to stack and avoid gotchas

Stacking works when you follow the program fine print. Read the landing pages carefully before you buy.

• Confirm your agency. A Marin Water offer may not apply to North Marin accounts.
• Check combinability. Marin lists that some irrigation controller discounts may not be combined with other Marin controller incentives.
• Watch timelines. Many rebates require application within 90 days of purchase and are first come, first served.
• Expect one per household limits and possible site inspections.
• For larger or custom projects, get pre approval. See the Marin custom rebate application for process and staged payments.

Apply in 20 minutes

You can complete most small rebate applications in a single sitting.

1. Gather documents: itemized receipt, brand and model number, installation photo, and your water account number.
2. Submit online through the appropriate utility page. Save a PDF or screenshot of your submission.
3. Track your check. Marin advises allowing several weeks for processing. Keep confirmation emails in a folder.

What to keep for buyers

Well organized records turn savings into real resale value. Create a simple “water efficiency” packet.

• Itemized receipts showing brand, model, cost, and date.
• Rebate application confirmations and any check stubs.
• Before and after photos for landscape conversions, plus installed equipment photos.
• Contractor invoices marked paid, and any required permits or inspection sign offs.
• Product manuals and warranty info for transferable items like controllers, monitors, and pumps.
• For custom rebates, keep any utility inspection reports and note if any second stage payment depends on a future savings period. See details on the Marin custom rebate application.

Simple priorities for sellers

If you plan to list within a year, focus on upgrades with quick payback and clear buyer appeal.

• Install a WaterSense labeled smart controller and efficient nozzles.
• Add a Flume monitor and include a recent usage report in disclosures.
• If timing allows, convert a high water lawn area using Cash for Grass and take strong before and after photos.

Ready to prioritize, coordinate vetted installers, and package your proof for buyers? Connect with Christina & Karla to map the upgrades that add value and keep your sale moving.

FAQs

How do I confirm my water provider?

• Check your water bill or account portal for the agency name. The provider determines which rebates you can use.

Can I combine a Rachio discount with a Marin Water rebate?

• Some controller discounts cannot be combined with other Marin Water controller incentives. Always read the current controller page before purchasing.

How soon must I apply after purchase?

• Many Marin programs require you to apply within 90 days and are subject to funding. Submit as soon as you install and keep copies.

Are rebates taxable?

• If total rebates exceed $600 in a year, you may be asked to submit a W 9 and could receive a 1099. Consult a tax professional for your situation.

I live in Novato. Do these rules still apply?

• North Marin Water District has its own rebate menu and amounts, which can differ from Marin Water. Check your district’s page before buying.