RainScapes Rewards Program Information Session

Wednesday, September 16, 2026, 6 p.m.
16 S. Summit Ave. or participate virtually.

Did you know private property owners in the City of Gaithersburg may be eligible for up to $5,000 in rebates for stormwater improvements through the City’s RainScapes Program? Join us to learn what types of projects qualify and how to apply.

This hybrid information session allows you to participate virtually or in person. Printed materials will be available during the in-person session.

Learn more about the City’s RainScapes Reward Program below.

 

The City of Gaithersburg is proud to partner with the Chesapeake Bay Trust on its RainScapes Rewards, modeled after Montgomery County’s RainScapes Rewards Program, and the City of Rockville’s program which aims to help residential property owners, homeowners associations, private education facilities, nonprofits, and multifamily dwellings improve stormwater runoff conditions on their property by installing natural drainage projects.

These projects are designed to reduce the amount of stormwater entering local streams, increase groundwater supply, and reduce chemical and nutrient pollutants entering waterways. Other environmental benefits of these projects include reduced energy consumption and air pollution from lawn mowers, reduced water use for irrigation during droughts, and increased biodiversity in the suburban landscape. Importantly, these unique landscaping enhancements can ultimately add value to the property.

Eligible Projects 

 

Rain Barrel

Rain Barrel
A rain barrel is a container used to collect and temporarily store rainwater that flows from the rooftop.

Rebate allowance: $1/gallon

Cistern

Cistern
A cistern is a sealed tank used to collect a temporarily store rainwater that flows from the rooftop

Rebate allowance: $1/gallon

Tree Canopy

Tree Canopy
Plant native trees that can help slow runoff, filter pollutants, provide shade and help local birds wildlife.

Rebate allowance: $150/large tree; $100/small trees
Invasive tree removal: $100/tree

Rain Gardens

Rain Gardens
A rain garden is a planted shallow depression that uses water-tolerant native plants and landscaping to soak up stormwater runoff.

Rebate allowance: $10/square foot

Pavement Removal

Pavement Removal
Remove impervious surfaces such as patios, walkways or excess driveway to help reduce polluted runoff and flooding.

Rebate allowance: $7/square foot if replacing with conservation landscaping or $3/square foot if replacing with sod

Permeable Pavers

Permeable Pavers
Replace your existing driveway, patio, walkway or other impermeable surface with a paver system designed to allow rainwater to soak back into the ground.

Rebate allowance: $14/square foot

 Conservation Landscaping

Conservation Landscaping
Conservation landscaping replaces traditional lawns with natives to help filter stormwater and create pollinator habitat.

Rebate allowance: $5 without soil amendment; $6/square foot with soil amendment?

Soil Test

Soil Test
Soil testing is used to determine the fertility, health, and quality of soil.

Rebate allowance: $20/ test