Are you planning a bathroom refresh or lawn update in Round Rock? Before you buy a single part, you may be able to get part of your costs back through local water rebates. These programs run first come, first served and most applications are due within 90 days of purchase or installation, so timing matters. In this guide, you will see what is available, who qualifies, how to apply, and a simple checklist to make sure you do not miss a dollar. Let’s dive in.
Round Rock rebates at a glance
Rainwater collection
- Rebate pays $0.50 per gallon of storage, minimum rebate $50. Equipment like pads, pumps, first-flush, and overflow parts are reimbursed at 50% of material cost. Gutters used for collection are reimbursed at 25% up to the cap on the form. Maximum rebate is $800 per water account. New containers only that meet screening and cover rules. Apply within 90 days. Checks are typically mailed 2 to 4 weeks after approval. See the city’s Rainwater Harvesting application for details and how to submit by email or mail. Find the rainwater rebate form and rules.
Smart irrigation upgrades
- Eligible items include WaterSense smart controllers, weather or soil sensors, pressure-regulating valves, spray to rotary nozzle upgrades, zone to drip conversions, capping zones, irrigation system decommissioning, and irrigation check-ups. Rebate amounts vary by item, and the total annual cap is $500 per residential account. Some work must be done by a TCEQ licensed irrigator. Review eligible items and caps on the Smart Irrigation application.
Better Bathroom fixtures
- For homes built in 1996 or earlier, you can get 50% of the purchase price back for EPA WaterSense toilets, showerheads, and bathroom faucets or aerators. Installation costs are rebated at 50% up to $50 per fixture with an invoice. Maximum disbursement is $600 per water account per year. Apply within 90 days. Check the Better Bathroom application for full rules.
Water flow sensors
- Eligible models include Flo by Moen, Flume2, Phyn Plus, and StreamLabs Control. The rebate covers 50% of the device and installation cost, up to $300, and requires adequate Wi‑Fi. See the city’s overview for current details. Start at the Round Rock conservation rebates page.
Healthy Lawn and parkway strip conversion
- The Healthy Lawn rebate offers a flat $150 per yard for mechanical aeration or compost application when eligible. The Parkway Strip conversion rebate supports replacing irrigated turf in the street-side strip with hardscape or native plants per city rules. See program outlines and links to applications.
Who qualifies and how to apply
Basic eligibility
- Most programs require that you are a direct City of Round Rock water account holder in good standing. Applications commonly require a copy of your City water bill or account number. If you receive water through a MUD or another provider, eligibility may differ or be unavailable. Verify the rules on the program forms.
Deadlines and documents
- Submit your application with itemized receipts and photos of the completed installation within 90 calendar days of purchase or completion. Rebate checks are usually mailed 2 to 4 weeks after approval. Programs may end when funds run out, so apply early. The rainwater form outlines timing and submittal steps.
Product and installation rules
- Many indoor and controller rebates require WaterSense-labeled products. Irrigation repairs or retrofits often must be performed by a TCEQ licensed irrigator. Rainwater containers must be dark colored, screened, installed on a level pad, and routed with proper overflow. See the specific application for exact requirements and caps. Smart Irrigation rules are listed here and Better Bathroom rules are here.
Regional rebates to double-check
Some households may also qualify for the LCRA WaterSmart Residential Rebates, which historically covered items like turf conversion, irrigation equipment, soil amendments, pool covers, and more. Eligibility depends on whether you are an LCRA domestic-use customer or receive water from an LCRA firm water customer. Rules have changed at times, and some city pages have shown conflicting notes in the past. To be safe, verify eligibility with both the City of Round Rock water conservation staff and LCRA before you purchase. LCRA also requires W‑9 and 1099 reporting if total rebates reach $600 or more in a calendar year. Review LCRA WaterSmart rebates and current eligibility.
Before you upgrade: quick checklist
- Check your water account. Confirm you are a direct City of Round Rock water customer and note the name on the account. If you are in a MUD, identify your retail or wholesale provider to see which programs apply. See the city’s application guidance.
- Prioritize high-payback items. WaterSense toilets and showerheads can save thousands of gallons per year and may qualify under the Better Bathroom rebate for older homes. Outdoors, smart controllers, pressure-regulating devices, and spray to drip or rotary conversions are strong candidates under the Smart Irrigation rebate. Check eligible irrigation items here.
- Gather documentation. Keep itemized receipts with date, vendor, and price, plus photos of the installation. Some regional programs require pre-approval for larger projects like turf conversion. See LCRA’s current guidance.
- Use licensed pros when required. For irrigation work, use a TCEQ licensed irrigator and save the invoice with license number.
- Apply and follow up. Email your application, receipts, and photos to the City. Most checks are processed in 2 to 4 weeks after approval. City contact: Jessica Woods, Water Conservation, [email protected], 512‑671‑2872.
Why this matters in Round Rock
Outdoor watering can account for roughly 60 to 80 percent of total water use in summer, which puts pressure on supply during hot months. Round Rock also has year-round watering restrictions and a Stage 1 schedule that limits most properties to two watering days per week. Rebates help you align with local rules, reduce monthly bills, and invest in upgrades that future buyers will appreciate for efficiency and maintenance savings. See the city’s conservation rebates hub for current program status.
Need a local guide before you buy?
Rebate rules and funding can change, so verify details with the City and, if relevant, LCRA before you schedule work. If you are thinking about selling soon or buying a home that needs upgrades, a simple plan can help you time improvements and maximize benefits. For friendly, neighborhood-first advice and a clear path from decision to closing, reach out to Esther Talley.
FAQs
Are Round Rock water rebates available if I am in a MUD?
- It depends on your provider. Many City rebates require a direct City of Round Rock water account, while some MUDs may have access to regional options, so confirm with your MUD and the City before you purchase.
Do Round Rock rebates need pre-approval before I buy?
- Most City residential rebates do not require pre-approval, but some larger regional rebates, such as turf conversions under LCRA, often do, so check the rules for your specific program.
How fast do Round Rock rebate checks arrive?
- City forms note that checks are typically mailed 2 to 4 weeks after your application is processed and approved, with extra time possible if an inspection is required.
Will water rebates affect my taxes in Texas?
- LCRA requires a W‑9 and issues a 1099 if total rebates to you reach $600 or more in a calendar year, so review the issuing agency’s guidance and consult a tax professional for your situation.
