Understanding the Fort Collins Xeriscape Rebate Program
If you’ve ever thought about swapping out your thirsty lawn for a more water-wise landscape, now’s the perfect time! The City of Fort Collins offers a Xeriscape Incentive Program (XIP) that provides rebates to homeowners who replace their grass with drought-friendly landscaping. With this program, you can lower your water bill, create a stunning outdoor space, and get some money back in the process.
At Linden Leaf Landscapes, we specialize in designing and installing professional xeriscapes that meet the city’s requirements—making it easy for you to take advantage of this program.
What is the Fort Collins Xeriscape Incentive Program?
The Xeriscape Incentive Program (XIP) is a rebate program designed to help Fort Collins residents reduce outdoor water use. If you replace your existing grass with an approved low-water landscape, you could receive a rebate of $0.75 per square foot, up to 1,000 square feet—that’s up to $750 per project.
Want to go even further? If at least 80% of your new plants are native to Colorado, you qualify for an extra $0.25 per square foot, raising the rebate potential to $1,000.
Since funding for this program is limited and rebates are awarded on a first-come, first-served basis, applying early is key!
How to Qualify for the Rebate
The Fort Collins XIP rebate isn’t automatic. You’ll need to apply and get approval before starting your project. Here’s a breakdown of what the process looks like:
Step 1: Submit Your Application
To apply, you’ll need:
- A Fort Collins Utilities water account (only eligible customers qualify)
- A landscape plan showing your xeriscape design
- A plant list that meets the city’s approved plant guidelines
- An irrigation and watering plan (if applicable)
- Before photos showing the existing grass>
Step 2: Meet with the City
Before you get started, you’ll need to schedule a customer meeting with city staff to review your plan and ensure everything aligns with program requirements.
Step 3: Install Your Xeriscape
Once approved, you’ll have one year to complete your project. This is where working with an experienced professional like Linden Leaf Landscapes makes all the difference—ensuring your design is both functional and beautiful.
Step 4: Inspection & Paperwork
After installation, the city will inspect your project to confirm it meets the rebate criteria. You’ll also need to submit final paperwork, including:
- A soil amendment certificate (if you removed grass and replaced it with plants)
- A W9 form (required for rebates over $600)
- Receipts and proof of payment for project costs
Step 5: Get Your Rebate Check
Once your project is approved, the city will issue a rebate check. Since these rebates are funded by a state grant, processing may take a few months.
Why Switch to a Xeriscape Landscape in Fort Collins?
Aside from the rebate, xeriscaping has many long-term benefits that make it worth considering:
- Lower Water Bills – Using less water means saving money every month.
- Less Maintenance – Say goodbye to mowing, fertilizing, and constant watering.
- Eco-Friendly – Native plants support local pollinators and wildlife.
- Curb Appeal – A well-designed xeriscape can enhance your Fort Collins property’s beauty and value.
Make the XIP Process Easy with Linden Leaf Landscapes
While the rebate program is a great opportunity, the paperwork and planning can be a bit overwhelming. That’s where Linden Leaf Landscapes comes in. We work with homeowners to create beautiful, low-maintenance landscapes that qualify for the rebate program—taking the guesswork out of the process.
From designing your xeriscape to ensuring it meets city requirements, we make the transition to a water-wise yard easy and stress-free.
Get Started with Your New Xeriscape Today
If you’re ready to transform your yard and take advantage of the Fort Collins Xeriscape Incentive Program, now is the time to start planning. Contact Linden Leaf Landscapes and let’s create a beautiful, sustainable xeriscape while helping you receive the maximum rebate possible.
Want to learn more? Follow the link below for the official City of Fort Collins Xeriscape Incentive Program application.
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