If you're considering a rain garden for your property, you may qualify for financial assistance through the City of Fort Wayne's Rain Garden Incentive Program.

The program is designed to encourage homeowners to install rain gardens that help reduce stormwater runoff, improve water quality, and support healthier local waterways.
Eligible property owners within Fort Wayne city limits can receive a cash incentive from City Utilities to help offset the cost of planning, planting, and installing a rain garden.

How Much Funding Is Available?

The City of Fort Wayne currently offers incentives of $2.00 per square foot of rain garden installed, up to a maximum reimbursement of $250 per property. The incentive payment is provided directly to the property owner after all program requirements have been completed and approved.

Who Qualifies?

The incentive program is available to:

• Residential property owners

• Properties located within Fort Wayne city limits

• Homeowners who complete the required application and program requirements

One incentive is available per property, regardless of the number of rain gardens installed.

Can the Incentive Be Used Toward our Installation?

Yes. The City's incentive is intended to help offset expenses related to the planning, planting, installation, and maintenance of a rain garden.

As rain garden specialists, we can help design and install a system that meets both your property's needs and the City's program requirements.

Additional Financing Options

For larger rain garden projects, homeowners may be able to combine the City's incentive with our additional financing options. The incentive can help reduce the overall project cost, while financing can make it easier to spread remaining costs over time. We can help you understand project costs and discuss available payment or financing options for the remaining balance, if applicable.
City incentive eligibility and reimbursement are determined by Fort Wayne City Utilities.

Why Install a Rain Garden?

Rain gardens are designed to capture and absorb stormwater runoff from roofs, driveways, and other hard surfaces. Compared to a traditional lawn area, a properly designed rain garden can allow significantly more water to soak into the ground, helping reduce runoff and supporting local water quality. They can also:

• Reduce stormwater pollution

• Help decrease pressure on Fort Wayne's sewer system

• Improve drainage issues on residential properties

• Add native plants, pollinator habitat, and seasonal beauty to your landscape

Interested in Learning More?

If your property is located within Fort Wayne city limits, contact us for a rain garden consultation. We'll evaluate your site, estimate your potential incentive amount, and discuss financing options that can help make your project affordable.

Note: Incentive eligibility and approval are determined by the City of Fort Wayne and City Utilities. Incentive amounts, requirements, and program availability are subject to change.

For more information, please check Fort Wayne’s official page for the Rain Garden Incentive Program:

https://utilities.cityoffortwayne.org/education/catching-rain/rain-garden-incentive-program/