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The City of Seattle’s RainWise program continues to support residents in managing stormwater on their properties, and as of July 2024, rebate amounts are the highest they’ve ever been. This means more money in your pocket for doing something great for your home and the environment.
What’s Changed?
RainWise rebates were already generous, but the city has raised them to better reflect rising costs and the growing need for climate-resilient infrastructure.
Here’s how the numbers stack up:
| Installation Type | Pre-2023 Rebate | 2023 Rebate | July 2024 Rebate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rain Gardens | $4.00/sq ft | $7.00/sq ft | $7.57/sq ft |
| Cisterns | $3.50/sq ft | $5.33/sq ft | $5.78/sq ft |
That’s right—more than a 70% increase in just a few years.
How Rebates Work
RainWise rebates are based on the amount of roof area your system captures and the type of stormwater system you install. The bigger and more efficient your system, the more money you can get back.
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Rain Gardens get higher rebates because they manage stormwater on-site without storage limitations.
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Cisterns are calculated based on how much water they store and manage—larger or linked tanks get larger rebates.
Real Projects, Real Savings
Need some inspiration? Here are two examples of Seattle homeowners who took advantage of RainWise rebates—and how much more they could earn today.
🌿 Merica’s Rain Garden
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Roof Area Captured: 922 sq ft
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Rain Garden Size: 70 sq ft
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Original Rebate: $3,688
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2024 Rebate: $6,980
That’s an extra $3,292—just for doing the same project today!
💧 Julie’s Cistern Project
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Roof Area Captured: 1,463 sq ft
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System: Two linked 205-gallon cisterns
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Original Rebate: $4,155
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2024 Rebate: $5,105
But wait—it gets better.
Alternative Scenarios for Julie’s Setup:
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Scenario 1: Three linked 205-gallon tanks → $6,719
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Scenario 2: Two linked 420-gallon tanks → $7,654
That’s almost double the original rebate!
Why RainWise?
RainWise rebates are making sustainable landscaping more affordable than ever. With increased financial support, there’s never been a better time to invest in a project that reduces flooding, helps the environment, and beautifies your property.
Let Rainplan help with your initial project process. Use our free Virtual Site Visit, see if your property qualifies, and get matched with the right resources like contractors or architects. RainWise gives you funding, Rainplan gives you peace of mind and time back.
Start here by searching your address to see if you qualify:
💬 Got Questions?
Reach out to the RainWise team at rainwise@seattle.gov or visit the RainWise website to learn more and find a certified contractor.