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Practical guidance

Completion Deadlines and Maintenance Rules

Last verified 8/12/26

Approval usually starts a clock. Programs may set a fixed completion date, a number of days after approval, seasonal installation windows, or contract milestones. After payment, the owner may still have to keep the lawn from returning, maintain plants, clean permeable pavement, submit reports, or preserve a conservation practice for years.

Put two dates on the calendar: the last day to finish and the next maintenance or renewal date. Completion and continuing compliance are separate promises.

When the answer changes

SituationWhat it means
Simple rebateFinish and submit the claim inside the approval window.
Seasonal planting programInstallation may need to match planting seasons or program rounds.
Stormwater creditMaintenance or renewal can continue as long as the credit is claimed.
Grant or cost shareThe agreement may set milestones, reporting, and a multi-year maintenance term.
Conservation contractPractice lifespan, certification, and contract obligations may extend for years.

The program’s own definitions control. Use this table to know what to ask—not to replace the official application, agreement, design, or local approval.

What to do next

  1. Record approval date, deadline, extension process, inspection window, and claim deadline.
  2. Schedule contractor lead time and material availability backward from the deadline.
  3. Ask what happens if weather, permitting, or agency review delays the project.
  4. Document completion and submit the claim before the final day.
  5. Create a maintenance plan for plants, runoff paths, inlets, overflow, permeable surfaces, and records.
  6. Transfer obligations and documents if ownership or management changes.

Real programs to compare

CaliforniaActive

LADWP Turf Replacement Rebate

Residential: $5.00 per square foot. Residential components: LADWP $3.00 plus MWD $2.00. Commercial multifamily: $6.00 per square foot first 50000 then $4.00. Public agency: $7.00 per square foot first 200000 then $4.00.

Last verified 8/11/26View program →

Common mistakes

  • Assuming approval stays open indefinitely.
  • Finishing on time but missing the separate reimbursement claim deadline.
  • Treating the final inspection as the end of maintenance.
  • Replacing approved plants or surfaces later without checking the agreement.
  • Failing to request an extension in writing before the deadline.

A five-minute check before you commit money

  • I confirmed the exact address, account, applicant, and property type.
  • I opened the current official program source.
  • I know whether approval or a contract must come before work or purchase.
  • I can separate required, allowed, reimbursable, and excluded work.
  • I know who pays first and what proof is required.
  • I saved the important answer or approval in writing.

FAQs

Can a deadline be extended?

Sometimes, but only the program can approve it. Ask before the deadline and keep the written decision.

What if plants die?

Replacement rules vary. Maintenance agreements may require the project to retain plant coverage or function.

Can a credit be revoked?

Yes, if a required practice is removed, stops functioning, or fails renewal or inspection.

Official sources

Rules vary by program. Use the official sources below to confirm the details that apply to your project.