Smart Irrigation Business Rebate
A weather-based irrigation controller can help your business reduce water waste and manage outdoor watering more efficiently. Smart controllers automatically adjust watering schedules based on local weather, soil and plant conditions.
Some controllers use a weather sensor installed on your property, while others use data from local weather stations. Many also connect to Wi-Fi, so you can monitor and manage your irrigation system from your phone. Smart controllers can work for small, large and multifamily properties.
Why use smart irrigation?
Installing a WaterSense-labeled smart irrigation controller can help your business:
- Save water and money. Reduce overwatering and unnecessary water use.
- Maintain healthy landscapes. Apply the right amount of water to different areas of your property.
- Save time. Let the controller adjust watering automatically, with many models also allowing you to monitor and manage settings from your phone.
Smart Irrigation Rebate Details*
Tacoma Water business and multifamily customers can receive a rebate for 50% of the purchase price, up to $500 per account, for one or more qualifying WaterSense smart irrigation controllers, add-ons or plug-in devices. You can install the equipment yourself or hire a contractor. The rebate is limited to one per business or multifamily account number. Indoor irrigation controllers also qualify if they meet all other program requirements.
Rebate Requirements:
- Smart irrigation controllers, add-ons and plug-in devices must appear on the EPA’s WaterSense Product Search Page.
- If a controller does not have smart technology built in, you must also provide proof of purchase for a compatible WaterSense-labeled add-on or plug-in device.
- The name on the rebate application must be associated with an active Tacoma Water business account.
Not eligible: Irrigation controllers without smart technology or a weather sensor added on or plugged in.
Check WaterSense-qualified productsApply for a rebate - Applications are accepted within 90 days after installation is complete.
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Complete the application
Fill out our Smart Irrigation Rebate Application.
Start the application -
Attach proof of purchase
Attach a copy of your purchase invoice or receipt.
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Submit your application
Select Submit when your application is complete.
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Watch for an email
We will email you within two weeks to let you know if your application is approved or if we need more information. If approved, you will receive an email from DocuSign asking you to sign the rebate agreement.
If your application requires an inspection, is incomplete, or you are not eligible, you will receive an email from conservation@tacoma.org with next steps.
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Sign the rebate agreement
Sign and submit the agreement through DocuSign. Allow 8 to 12 weeks for the rebate to appear on your Tacoma Water account.
Recycle your old controller:
Recycle your old irrigation controller box at an Ewing Irrigation Supply location.
Find an Ewing Irrigation Supply locationFAQs
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- Irrigation means using a system to water your yard or landscape. This can include sprinklers, drip irrigation or soaker hoses.
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A smart irrigation controller changes your watering schedule based on weather and conditions in your yard.
Some controllers use a weather sensor at your home. Others use information from local weather stations. Some Wi-Fi-enabled models also let you control your system from a mobile device.
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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 watering schedule. Smart controllers also use site factors such as microclimate, plant type, soil type, slope, and method of irrigation to inform the watering schedule.
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EPA estimates that a large portion of water used in 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.
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An irrigation zone is one part of your watering system controlled by a single valve. Zones often group plants or areas with similar water needs. A controller may manage several zones. There is no minimum number of zones required for this rebate.
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You may find eligible products at irrigation supply stores, home improvement stores and online retailers. Check the EPA WaterSense product list before you buy.
Find WaterSense products -
Tacoma Water business and multifamily customers can receive a rebate of 50% (up to $500) of the purchase price of any qualifying WaterSense smart irrigation controller and/or add-on or plug-in device.
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They can be installed by a contractor or by the business Owner/employee.
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Yes, renters who are Tacoma Water business customers are eligible for this rebate.
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Yes, we offer homeowners/residential tenants who are Tacoma Water customers a rebate for residential properties.
Apply for a residental property rebate -
Yes. However, the program is limited to one rebate per metered account; you can apply and receive a rebate only one time. Businesses can submit proof of multiple controllers and/or add-on or plug-in devices. The maximum rebate is $500 total, no matter how many controllers/devices were installed.
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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.
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No. This rebate will appear as a credit on your Tacoma Public Utilities business account 8-12 weeks after processing.
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Tacoma Water reserves the right to an inspection if application is incomplete or more information is needed. If an inspection cannot be completed, Program rebate payment may be withdrawn and Owner shall be responsible for the full cost to the Contractor(s).
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- 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.
Learn about our other rebate programs
*Program requirements and rebate amounts are subject to change without notice. Check with Tacoma Water for current information. Water savings are estimates only. Actual savings may vary. Tacoma Water does not make any representations, promises or warranties with respect to actual cost savings from any of the products. Tacoma Water does not endorse any particular contractor, manufacturer, or product.