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Lawn Replacement Program FAQ

Applications are accepted throughout the year until your water provider runs out of available spots. The Lawn Removal Service operates from late May through September, depending on weather conditions.

Submit all your application material by April 1st to meet our priority deadline and have your project completed before July 1st.

If you choose to remove lawn on your own, you MUST provide photographic evidence that the lawn has been removed at least 10 days before picking up your gardens. No exceptions.[/vc_toggle][vc_separator][vc_toggle title=”I already started or completed removing some lawn. Can I still qualify?” style=”arrow” color=”black” custom_font_container=”tag:h4|font_size:18|text_align:left|color:%235f757a” custom_use_theme_fonts=”yes” use_custom_heading=”true”]We appreciate your enthusiasm! Unfortunately, lawn removal projects that started before receiving written approval from Resource Central are not eligible. You must remove existing and maintained grass to qualify.[/vc_toggle][vc_separator][vc_toggle title=”What discounts are available in 2024?” style=”arrow” color=”black” custom_font_container=”tag:h4|font_size:18|text_align:left|color:%235f757a” custom_use_theme_fonts=”yes” use_custom_heading=”true”]Our regular Lawn Removal Service rate for the 2024 season is $2.50 per square foot. Many customers are eligible for a discount thanks to our partnerships with Colorado water utilities. If your utility offers a discount, you’ll pay just $1.00 per square foot, up to a predetermined maximum set by your utility. Discounts are limited, so apply early to reserve yours!

We have a 200 square foot minimum for all projects. Sorry, no exceptions.

You could also be eligible for discounted low-water gardens through our Lawn Replacement Program. You can use the Find Your Discount tool on our Lawn Removal Service page to see what discounts are available to you.

[/vc_toggle][vc_separator][vc_toggle title=”What qualifies as existing, watered and maintained grass?” style=”arrow” color=”black” custom_font_container=”tag:h4|font_size:18|text_align:left|color:%235f757a” custom_use_theme_fonts=”yes” use_custom_heading=”true”]Existing, watered and maintained grass is a well established area of lawn that regularly receives supplemental water throughout the growing season. The area could be watered by an in-ground irrigation system, a sprinkler attached to a hose, or by hand.

To participate in the Lawn Replacement Program, you must submit a “before” photo showing the lawn is in generally good health. Some small bare or dry spots are usually OK. You must self-certify that the lawn is regularly water and maintained.

These lawns are considered “watered and maintained.”

These areas are NOT considered “watered and maintained.”

[/vc_toggle][vc_separator][vc_toggle title=”I don’t have an irrigation system. Can I still participate?” style=”arrow” color=”black” custom_font_container=”tag:h4|font_size:18|text_align:left|color:%235f757a” custom_use_theme_fonts=”yes” use_custom_heading=”true”]Yes. You are not required to have an irrigation system. However, any lawn removed as part of the Lawn Replacement Program must be regularly watered and maintained to qualify. This ensures we achieve our water conservation mission.[/vc_toggle][vc_separator][vc_toggle title=”I have snow in my yard. Why do I need to submit new photos?” style=”arrow” color=”black” custom_font_container=”tag:h4|font_size:18|text_align:left|color:%235f757a” custom_use_theme_fonts=”yes” use_custom_heading=”true”]The Lawn Replacement contract requires a photo that has the project area clearly outlined. This helps our team verify the square footage of your project. We also ask that submitted photos don’t have snow. This helps us determine the condition of the turf. Once the snow melts, we will ask for updated photos as w require photos without snow. Old photos do not work they must be current.[/vc_toggle][vc_separator][vc_toggle title=”Which Garden In A Box will I receive? How large is it?” style=”arrow” color=”black” custom_font_container=”tag:h4|font_size:18|text_align:left|color:%235f757a” custom_use_theme_fonts=”yes” use_custom_heading=”true”]This season, Lawn Replacement Program participants who qualify will receive a maximum of 300 square feet of waterwise gardens. The sun option is based on the “Golden Hour” garden and the shade option is based on the “Native Shadows” garden. Check out the Garden Store for specifics. Some plant substitutions may be necessary.[/vc_toggle][vc_separator][vc_toggle title=”How do I get my discounted waterwise garden and irrigation conversion kit?” style=”arrow” color=”black” custom_font_container=”tag:h4|font_size:18|text_align:left|color:%235f757a” custom_use_theme_fonts=”yes” use_custom_heading=”true”]All gardens will be available for pick up at one of our convenient distribution locations. If you can’t make it to your designated pickup, you can also send someone as proxy to pick up the plants for you.[/vc_toggle][vc_separator][vc_toggle title=”Where can I find more information about Garden In A Box?” style=”arrow” color=”black” custom_font_container=”tag:h4|font_size:18|text_align:left|color:%235f757a” custom_use_theme_fonts=”yes” use_custom_heading=”true”]Our talented Garden In A Box team has an FAQ page of their own. Check it out, give them a call at 303-999-3820 ext. 222, or email them.[/vc_toggle][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″][vc_toggle title=”What are the program requirements?” style=”arrow” color=”black” custom_font_container=”tag:h4|font_size:18|text_align:left|color:%235f757a” custom_use_theme_fonts=”yes” use_custom_heading=”true”]Our program focuses on reducing water use for lawns. By concentrating on projects that replace well-kept turf (which requires more water) with water-efficient alternatives, we aim to boost our water conservation efforts.

Your project area must be watered, well-maintained grass. Applicants with dead grass or overgrown weeds will not be accepted.
You must properly adjust and maintain your irrigation system and/or watering schedule to account for the new low-water landscape features.
We only accept new projects – you are not eligible for the program if you have already removed or killed your existing turf prior to receiving written acceptance into the program from Resource Central.
You must replace at least 50% of the removed turf area with plant material.
You must be the legal owner and/or manager of the property.

Space and program funding is limited to a predetermined number of households. Supplies and participation are limited and fluctuate annually.[/vc_toggle][vc_separator][vc_toggle title=”Who qualifies for a discount?” style=”arrow” color=”black” custom_font_container=”tag:h4|font_size:18|text_align:left|color:%235f757a” custom_use_theme_fonts=”yes” use_custom_heading=”true”]Check to see if your water provider is one of our partners and apply here!

We offer the Lawn Replacement pProgram to Colorado residents who live roughly between Fort Collins and Fountain. Discounted waterwise gardens are only available if your water utility participates in the Lawn Replacement Program. If they do not, you may still purchase Garden In A Box kits.[/vc_toggle][vc_separator][vc_toggle title=”Do I have to remove my entire lawn?” style=”arrow” color=”black” custom_font_container=”tag:h4|font_size:18|text_align:left|color:%235f757a” custom_use_theme_fonts=”yes” use_custom_heading=”true”]No. We believe that there is nothing wrong with practical, useful lawns for entertaining, or playing with kids and pets. You can choose to remove all, or part of your lawn.

We have a 200 square foot minimum requirement for all projects.

Most customers choose to remove between 400 and 500 square feet of lawn, usually in the front yard. Front yards tend to be less useful, plus, it’s a great way to add some curb appeal to your home![/vc_toggle][vc_separator][vc_toggle title=”Do I have to submit an application? When will I hear back?” style=”arrow” color=”black” custom_font_container=”tag:h4|font_size:18|text_align:left|color:%235f757a” custom_use_theme_fonts=”yes” use_custom_heading=”true”]Yes. You’ll need to submit an application even if your utility doesn’t offer a discount. Don’t worry, it only takes about ten minutes to gather a bit of crucial information about your project.

We review each application in the order received as quickly as possible, typically within one business week. We will reply by email with what to do next. Thank you for your patience![/vc_toggle][vc_separator][vc_toggle title=”My water utility doesn’t participate in your program. What can I do?” style=”arrow” color=”black” custom_font_container=”tag:h4|font_size:18|text_align:left|color:%235f757a” custom_use_theme_fonts=”yes” use_custom_heading=”true”]Don’t worry, you can still create an amazing xeriscape on a budget! You can always attend our Waterwise Yard Seminars for free, purchase a Garden In A Box, or hire our Lawn Removal Service at the regular rate. The Lawn Removal Service is available to anyone between roughly Fort Collins and Fountain, Colorado.

If you’d like your utility to offer discounts in the future, we encourage you to contact their customer service department. Please urge them to offer Resource Central’s water conservation programs and discounts to help your community conserve water and create eco-friendly yards.

[/vc_toggle][vc_separator][vc_toggle title=”Is there an option to remove turf myself and utilize my discount on gardens?” style=”arrow” color=”black” custom_font_container=”tag:h4|font_size:18|text_align:left|color:%235f757a” custom_use_theme_fonts=”yes” use_custom_heading=”true”]Yes. You can apply for our Lawn Replacement program as a do-it-yourself applicant. This means you are interested in removing the turf yourself. Your water provider discount can then be utilized towards gardens while supplies last![/vc_toggle][vc_separator][vc_toggle title=”What if I need help designing my project? Do you offer at-home consultations?” style=”arrow” color=”black” custom_font_container=”tag:h4|font_size:18|text_align:left|color:%235f757a” custom_use_theme_fonts=”yes” use_custom_heading=”true”]You don’t need professional landscape plans to create a beautiful xeriscape! Trust us, it will look great if you follow the seven basic principles of xeriscaping.

For more help, check out our companion website, Waterwiseyards.org, where you’ll find tons of resources, tips, and encouragement from Coloradans who made the switch from grass to garden.

You can also sign up for our Waterwise Yard Seminar Series to learn techniques and tips from local pros. Our Garden In A Box program also makes designing your garden simple. Every garden we sell includes several plant-by-numbers maps which show you how to arrange each plant.

If you participate in our programs, you’ll have access to our staff through phone consultations to provide helpful tips and ideas over the phone.[/vc_toggle][vc_separator][vc_toggle title=”How do I measure my project area?” style=”arrow” color=”black” custom_font_container=”tag:h4|font_size:18|text_align:left|color:%235f757a” custom_use_theme_fonts=”yes” use_custom_heading=”true”]Accuracy matters! Your project’s square footage is they key to unlocking the price tag for your upcoming lawn removal venture. Achieve precision in measuring your landscaping project space with these straightforward steps using either a tape measure or a hose/string.

Square/Rectangle:

Measure the length and width.
Multiply the length by the width.
Result: Area = Length x Width

Circle:

Measure the radius (distance from center to edge) or diameter (distance across the circle).
If you have the radius, square it and multiply by π (pi, approximately 3.14).
If you have the diameter, square it and divide by 4, then multiply by π.
Result: Area = πr² (or Area = π(d²/4)

Triangle:

Measure the base and height.
Multiply the base by the height and divide by 2.
Result: Area = (Base x Height) / 2

Remember to double-check your measurements for accuracy, and you’ll be well-prepared to calculate the area of various project shapes!

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Lawn Removal Service

[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_separator color=”custom” border_width=”10″ el_width=”70″ accent_color=”#00843d”][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″][vc_hoverbox image=”88133″ primary_title=”When can you remove my lawn?” primary_title_font_container=”color:%23ffffff” primary_title_use_theme_fonts=”yes” hover_title=”” el_width=”90″ use_custom_fonts_primary_title=”true”]We start accepting applications for discounts in January or February. We start physically removing grass in late May and continue through September, weather permitting. Appointments are only available Monday through Friday during normal business hours.[/vc_hoverbox][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″][vc_hoverbox image=”164640″ primary_title=”What is the Lawn Removal Service? How much does it cost?” primary_title_font_container=”color:%23ffffff” primary_title_use_theme_fonts=”yes” hover_title=”” el_width=”90″ use_custom_fonts_primary_title=”true”]Our Lawn Removal Service is the physical removal, hauling, and disposal of at least 200 square feet of maintained lawn. The service costs $2.50 per square foot. You may qualify for a discount, if offered on behalf of your water utility. [/vc_hoverbox][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_empty_space][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″][vc_toggle title=”How deep can you cut the lawn? How much material will you remove from the lawn?” style=”arrow” color=”black” custom_font_container=”tag:h4|font_size:18|text_align:left|color:%235f757a” custom_use_theme_fonts=”yes” use_custom_heading=”true”]We’ll set our sod cutter to cut as deep as possible, about two inches below the surface. We’ll cut deep enough to remove the grass roots but not too deep that we end up removing all your topsoil. Sorry, we can’t dig any deeper than that. Most people do not add topsoil nor compost to make up for the removed material. Instead, you should add several inches of mulch which will help bring the area up to a more even grade with the surrounding lawn.[/vc_toggle][vc_separator][vc_toggle title=”I have trees, roots or a fence in my yard. Will you damage them?” style=”arrow” color=”black” custom_font_container=”tag:h4|font_size:18|text_align:left|color:%235f757a” custom_use_theme_fonts=”yes” use_custom_heading=”true”]No. We use a machine on grassy areas of your yard only. We will hand dig with a shovel around any trees, roots or fences. Just be sure to let us know ahead of time so we can plan our time accordingly. We are very careful when we remove lawn near trees.[/vc_toggle][vc_separator][vc_toggle title=”Will the grass grow back after you remove it?” style=”arrow” color=”black” custom_font_container=”tag:h4|font_size:18|text_align:left|color:%235f757a” custom_use_theme_fonts=”yes” use_custom_heading=”true”]We do our best to remove as much of the grass root as possible. Healthy grass can have roots in excess of six inches deep but our sod cutter can only remove the top two inches of material. It is possible that some small patches of grass will start growing back but this unusual if you properly complete your project. We recommend covering the bare ground with a thick layer of cardboard, then adding four or more inches of mulch on top within a week of the lawn removal. The cardboard is an eco-friendly weed barrier and the mulch helps retain moisture, shade the soil, and block sunlight from reaching the grass. We typically do not recommend landscape fabric nor synthetic weed barriers.

The Lawn Removal Service is not a good solution for removing stubborn weeds. Deeply rooted, well established weeds will grow back more vigorous than before. We recommend treating them with horticultural vinegar.[/vc_toggle][vc_separator][vc_toggle title=”Can you cut curves or only straight lines?” style=”arrow” color=”black” custom_font_container=”tag:h4|font_size:18|text_align:left|color:%235f757a” custom_use_theme_fonts=”yes” use_custom_heading=”true”]We can absolutely cut curves. Our machine is roughly the size of a (much heavier) push mower so any design you can make, we can make too! Just let us know exactly how you want it when we arrive and we will mark it out.[/vc_toggle][vc_separator][vc_toggle title=”Can you remove some lawn at my commercial or industrial property?” style=”arrow” color=”black” custom_font_container=”tag:h4|font_size:18|text_align:left|color:%235f757a” custom_use_theme_fonts=”yes” use_custom_heading=”true”]Maybe! Drop us a note or give us a call to chat about your commercial project and our availability. Email us at lawnreplacement@resourcecentral.org or call 303-999-3820 ext. 221.[/vc_toggle][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″][vc_toggle title=”What does it look like when you’re done removing the lawn?” style=”arrow” color=”black” custom_font_container=”tag:h4|font_size:18|text_align:left|color:%235f757a” custom_use_theme_fonts=”yes” use_custom_heading=”true”]Bare ground! We’ll leave you with nothing but dirt so you can start planting and mulching right away. We’ll be sure to rake the area smooth (within reason) and sweep up afterwards. The service includes hauling and disposal of the removed sod. We compost nearly all the sod we remove!

Here are some “after” photos of our Lawn Removal Service projects.

[/vc_toggle][vc_separator][vc_toggle title=”How do I pay?” style=”arrow” color=”black” custom_font_container=”tag:h4|font_size:18|text_align:left|color:%235f757a” custom_use_theme_fonts=”yes” use_custom_heading=”true”]We accept credit or debit card payments only. After your project is approved, you’ll be asked to pay a 50% deposit securely on our website. You’ll pay the remaining balance on the day of your appointment by credit or debit card. Sorry, no exceptions.[/vc_toggle][vc_separator][vc_toggle title=”What should I do after the lawn removal?” style=”arrow” color=”black” custom_font_container=”tag:h4|font_size:18|text_align:left|color:%235f757a” custom_use_theme_fonts=”yes” use_custom_heading=”true”]At minimum, you’ll want to cover the area with at least four inches of mulch within about a week to prevent weeds and grass from growing back. You should also be prepared to add low-water plants, trees, shrubs, gravel, flagstone, or whatever materials you choose. Remember, we require at least 50% plant material in your new landscape. Don’t wait too long to cover the bare ground; you could lose a lot of soil in a heavy rainstorm from erosion. You can also till the soil to break it up and incorporate amendments, like compost, but this is not required for most native plants to thrive.[/vc_toggle][vc_separator][vc_toggle title=”Do I need to do anything before you arrive to remove the lawn?” style=”arrow” color=”black” custom_font_container=”tag:h4|font_size:18|text_align:left|color:%235f757a” custom_use_theme_fonts=”yes” use_custom_heading=”true”]Please remove sticks, loose rocks, pet waste, toys, and any other obstructions before we arrive. We will submit an 811 utility marking request for your project as required by Colorado law. When we arrive for the project, we’ll inspect the removal area with you, mark the project outline with spray paint, and flag obstacles like stumps, tree roots, large rocks, and sprinkler heads. Please do continue to water the space as you normally would. Please do not water within 2 days of your appointment.[/vc_toggle][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]

Do It Yourself

[/vc_column_text][vc_separator color=”custom” border_width=”10″ el_width=”70″ accent_color=”#00843d”][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″][vc_hoverbox image=”64240″ primary_title=”Can you recommend a landscaper to help with my project?” primary_title_font_container=”color:%23ffffff” primary_title_use_theme_fonts=”yes” hover_title=”” el_width=”90″ use_custom_fonts_primary_title=”true”]We don’t recommend specific landscape contractors. Instead, we encourage you to visit the Associated Landscape Contractors of Colorado website to find a qualified landscape professional in your area.[/vc_hoverbox][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″][vc_hoverbox image=”187472″ primary_title=”What is a xeriscape?” primary_title_font_container=”color:%23ffffff” primary_title_use_theme_fonts=”yes” hover_title=”” el_width=”90″ use_custom_fonts_primary_title=”true”]A xeriscape is “landscaping that promotes water efficiency by using plants that are native and adaptable to Colorado’s semi-arid climate.” A xeriscape is not a “zeroscape”! A xeriscape is not just rocks and cactus, pavement, or bare ground. It’s a diverse, living landscape with ecological benefits and up to 60% water savings over a traditional lawn.[/vc_hoverbox][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_empty_space][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″][vc_toggle title=”How should I remove a section of my lawn?” style=”arrow” color=”black” custom_font_container=”tag:h4|font_size:18|text_align:left|color:%235f757a” custom_use_theme_fonts=”yes” use_custom_heading=”true”]You should hire our Lawn Removal Service, of course! If that doesn’t work for you, you can rent a sod cutter, sheet mulch, or solarize the area. We don’t recommend using chemicals as they are likely to negatively impact soil quality and insect health. For more details, check out our Resource Library![/vc_toggle][vc_separator][vc_toggle title=”Why should I replace my grass with xeriscape?” style=”arrow” color=”black” custom_font_container=”tag:h4|font_size:18|text_align:left|color:%235f757a” custom_use_theme_fonts=”yes” use_custom_heading=”true”]By transitioning to a xeriscape, you’ll save time and money on maintenance, reduce fertilizer, fuel, and pesticide use, add curb appeal to your property, and create habitat. We bet you’ll meet your neighbors too since they’ll be curious about your new, awesome yard!

Here are some examples:

[/vc_toggle][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″][vc_toggle title=”Do you offer help with sprinkler conversions, planting, mulching, weeding, or other garden tasks?” style=”arrow” color=”black” custom_font_container=”tag:h4|font_size:18|text_align:left|color:%235f757a” custom_use_theme_fonts=”yes” use_custom_heading=”true”]Unfortunately, we do not have the capacity to offer sprinkler conversion services nor gardening help. Resource Central is a not-for-profit organization, not a general landscape contractor. We recommend finding a qualified landscaper, irrigation or xeriscape specialist through Associated Landscape Contractors of Colorado.[/vc_toggle][vc_separator][vc_toggle title=”What is an irrigation zone and how do I convert my irrigation system?” style=”arrow” color=”black” custom_font_container=”tag:h4|font_size:18|text_align:left|color:%235f757a” custom_use_theme_fonts=”yes” use_custom_heading=”true”]An irrigation zone is a set of sprinkler heads that all turn on at the same time. Your property will have multiple zones that can be programmed for different run times on your irrigation control clock. To find your zones, simply activate each one on your control clock for a few minutes, then walk around your property to locate which heads have turned on. Be sure to check for drip zones as well by listening for gurgling water.

Xeriscape projects are far more successful in saving water when they encompass one or more entire irrigation zones. This allows you to convert the zone to a drip system or to deactivate it entirely. Grass and xeriscape should not be in the same zone because they require different watering rates and schedules.

There are many ways to convert you irrigation system, including the RainBird 1800 spray-to-drip retrofit kit.

We recommend visiting the Associated Landscape Contractors of Colorado website.[/vc_toggle][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_column][/vc_row][/vc_section][vc_row][vc_column][vc_cta h2=”Questions?” txt_align=”center” style=”flat”]

Email the Turf Replacement team or call 303-999-3820 x221.

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