Rain/Freeze Sensor Rebates in Plano: How to Get $50+ Back for Water Conservation Upgrades

City of Plano pays residents $50 per rain/freeze sensor installation—and rebates for smart controllers can offset 50-100% of upgrade costs. This guide walks you through eligibility, application, and maximizing your rebate capture.

Available Rebate Programs (2026)

Rain/Freeze Sensor Rebate

Amount: $50 per installed sensor

Limit: One rebate per irrigation controller

Eligibility: City of Plano water customers

Requirements:

• Sensor must be wired to existing or new irrigation controller
• Must be installed by licensed irrigator or self-installed with documentation
• Sensor must be positioned correctly (not under eaves or obstructions)
• Controller must be programmed to respond to sensor input

Smart Irrigation Controller Rebate

Amount: Varies by controller type and zone count

Typical range: $75-$200 depending on system complexity

Eligibility: EPA WaterSense certified controllers preferred

Requirements:

• ET-based or smart weather-adjusting technology
• Professional installation recommended
• Pre-approval may be required for larger rebates

Free Water Conservation Assessment

Plano offers free professional irrigation system evaluations:

• Distribution uniformity testing
• System efficiency recommendations
• Rebate program guidance
• No obligation—educational service

Rebate Application Process

Step 1: Pre-Approval (Recommended)

For smart controller rebates over $100, contact Plano Water Conservation before purchase:

• Submit preliminary application
• Receive approval confirmation
• Proceed with installation

Step 2: Professional Installation

Sandoval Landscaping handles:

• Rebate-eligible sensor/controller selection
• Proper installation meeting program requirements
• Application paperwork completion
• Documentation photography

Step 3: Application Submission

Required documentation:

• Completed rebate application form
• Itemized receipt showing sensor/controller model
• Installation documentation (date, installer license if applicable)
• Photos of installed device and placement
• Copy of recent water bill (proof of Plano service)

Step 4: Rebate Processing

Processing timeline:

• Applications reviewed quarterly
• Approval notification within 4-6 weeks
• Rebate check mailed within 8-10 weeks of approval

Maximizing Rebate Value

Stacking Rebates

Combine multiple rebates for maximum benefit:

• Rain/freeze sensor ($50)
• Smart controller ($100-$200)
• High-efficiency nozzles (if available)
• Total potential: $200-$300+

Timing Considerations

Rebate programs often have:

• Annual funding limits (apply early in year)
• Equipment change requirements (new installations only)
• Retrofit allowances for qualifying upgrades

Rebate-Eligible Equipment

Rain/Freeze Sensors

Qualifying sensors include:

• Hunter Mini-Clik rain sensor
• Rain Bird RSD rain sensor
• Weathermatic SLW series
• Toro rain sensors

Smart Controllers

EPA WaterSense certification is preferred:

• Rachio 3 series
• Hunter Hydrawise
• Rain Bird ESP-ME3 with LNK
• Toro EVOLUTION with Smart Connect

Common Application Mistakes

Avoid these rebate disqualifiers:

• Incorrect sensor placement: Must be in open area, not under eaves
• Missing documentation: Incomplete paperwork causes delays
• Ineligible equipment: Verify model qualifies before purchase
• Late application: Submit within 90 days of installation

Other DFW Municipal Programs

City of Dallas

• Smart controller rebates up to $150
• Free irrigation system evaluations
• High-efficiency nozzle rebates

Frisco

• Smart irrigation rebates
• Water conservation consultation

Southlake, Allen, McKinney

• Variable programs based on annual conservation funding
• Contact municipalities for current availability

Conclusion

Plano's rebate programs transform smart irrigation from expense to value proposition. Sandoval Landscaping ensures clients capture every eligible dollar through proper equipment selection, installation, and application management.

Learn more about smart irrigation: Smart Irrigation & Water Management Guide