Green Infrastructure Grants for Homes
Pilot Program Status
Due to the overwhelming interest and limited available funding, we have now filled the available spaces for Pilot Program participants. Please check back for future updates on possible program expansion and fill out the interest form to be added to our outreach list.
Program Overview
The San Francisco Public Utilities Commission (SFPUC) has launched a pilot program to provide grant funding for green infrastructure projects on residential properties. The goals of the pilot program are to reduce the amount of stormwater runoff entering the sewer system and to lower the stormwater portion of customers’ sewer service charge. Project types can include rain gardens, permeable pavement, infiltration trenches, and cisterns.
Green infrastructure takes advantage of the natural processes of soils and plants to slow down and filter stormwater to keep it from overwhelming our sewer system.
Benefits
Green infrastructure can:
- Manage stormwater on your property
- Lower the stormwater charge portion of customers’ sewer service charge
- Beautify your property
- Help create a more climate-resilient community
- Reduce the risks of flooding
- Support pollinator habitats
- Capture and reuse water
- Make your landscape more drought tolerant
Future Opportunities
After the pilot program, the SFPUC will evaluate the possibility of launching a city-wide program. If you have questions, or do not meet the eligibility requirements but would like to be considered for future opportunities, please contact us at gihomes@sfwater.org.
Program Steps
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1. INTEREST: I want to learn more!
Learn more about the program by viewing the recording of the Summer 2023 Virtual Workshop and/or reviewing the informational PDFs linked below.
- Learn more about the program details:
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2. EVALUATE: Is my property a good fit?
Our team will schedule a visit to participating homes to see if it is a good fit. Some of the things we’ll be looking for include: existing drainage infrastructure, soil types, property and rooftop size, etc.
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3. PLAN: What types of green infrastructure will work on my property?
After we review your property evaluation, our team will determine what types of green infrastructure could work on your property, such as rain gardens, permeable pavement, infiltration trenches, and/or cisterns. You will have an opportunity to meet with us to review your green infrastructure plan and provide your feedback and approval.
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4. APPROVE & BUILD: Let's build it!
Once you’re happy with your green infrastructure plan, we will help you get bids from contractors who can complete the design and construction. When you have received pricing information from qualified contractors, we will prepare a grant application for your review and approval and make sure you have all the information you need to feel confident when you sign the Subgrant Agreement. If the SFPUC approves your project for funding, we will send you the first payment so you can hire your preferred contractor and secure any required permits. We will observe construction to ensure that all program requirements are met.
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5. INSPECT: Let's make sure it works!
Once your green infrastructure is built, we will make sure it works and train you on how to take care of it. The SFPUC will come out to inspect the features, after which, we will send you the final payment so you can pay your contractor. In order to start receiving your stormwater credit, you will need to send the SFPUC annual reporting (photos) and agree to occasional inspections.
Resources for Contractors
- Contractor factsheet
- Please fill out this web form to be included on the Interested Contractor List.
- Residential Green Infrastructure Design Guidance
- Residential Green Infrastructure Typical Details
- Interested Contractor List
- Green Infrastructure Permit Guidebook
- Rainwater Harvesting Manual