RainScapes Rewards Rebate Application Guide

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The RainScapes Rewards Rebate program provides a cost-share approach to achieving RainScapes techniques such as stormwater gardens, water harvesting, green roofs, permeable paver installation, pavement removal, and other approved projects that benefit clean water. It is open to properties in Montgomery County outside the municipalities of Rockville, Gaithersburg and Takoma Park.

For more information, visit RainScapes Frequently Asked Questions or contact the RainScapes program at [email protected].

Our rebate maximums are:

  • Residential property: $7,500 maximum rebate (per parcel)
  • Commercial, HOAs, Multifamily, or Institutional property: $20,000 maximum rebate (per parcel)

RainScapes Rewards Rebate Application Guide

You can print this checklist to check off each item one-by-one.

Preparation and project selection

  • Define concerns and goals.

    • Do you have erosion?
    • Do you have a runoff from your neighbor’s property?
    • Do you want to attract butterflies and birds to your yard?
    • Do you have too much lawn and want to reduce your lawn area?

  • Look at your property for water issues.

    • Do you have areas of standing water?
    • In a rain storm do you have a stream of water running through your property?
    • Do you have a large paved area that is causing runoff on your property?

  • Learn more or select a project.

Application and approval

  • Submit a project application.

  • Work with assigned planner.

    • Once your application is accepted, your project will be assigned a planner.
    • You planner will contact you and conduct a Site Assessment (PDF) for your property.
    • Submit a plan to your planner for review. View each project type for rules and requirements.
    • If needed, find a contractor.

  • Get project approval to install.

    • Find your Property Tax ID and RainScapes Application number and submit your plan within three months of receiving the site assessment report to your planner for review and approval.
NOTE: Application processing time is six to eight weeks; the goal is to have a project approved for installation within six months of applying. Projects installed before a site assessment and plan approval will not qualify for a rebate.

Installation and finishing

  • Install your project.

    • Call MISS Utility (811) or visit their website and open a ticket.
    • We require minimum standards to be met whether working with a professional or on your own. View each project type for rules and requirements.

  • Schedule final inspection with planner.

    • After installation is complete, contact your planner for final inspection. Your planner will take measurements and photos of your project for verification of the project.

  • Submit all receipts and sign property owner agreement.

    • The final rebate amount will be based on the total amount of acceptable receipts, up to the approved rebate amount for your project.
    • Digitally sign the Property Owner Agreement if not already done.
NOTE: You have six months from date of plan approval to install your project. You should receive your rebate check within eight to 12 weeks after your final inspection.

Apply for a Water Quality Protection Charge credit.

After you receive your RainScapes Rewards rebate, visit the Water Quality Protection Charge website and apply for a charge reduction based on your property type. Projects will be checked every three years. Keep your project reasonably maintained and functioning to maintain eligibility for WQPC credit. View each project type for maintenance guidance.