Our Wastewater Enterprise's Utility Planning Division has partnered with the City’s Community Challenge Grant Program (CCG) to offer grants for community-based projects which help manage stormwater using ecologically based strategies known as green infrastructure. The grants are based on the idea that small actions by community members can add up to large benefits for San Francisco's watersheds and sewer infrastructure.
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| Plant*SF 5th Avenue project: Before |
Plant*SF 5th Avenue project: After |
Grants Support Green Infrastructure
The grants support the planning, design, and construction of green stormwater management facilities. Projects harvest and use rainwater, remove impervious surfaces, or implement other green infrastructure like bioswales and rain gardens. In addition to managing stormwater, projects beautify neighborhoods, provide recreational opportunities, and educate residents about the city’s water and wastewater systems. Check out our informational brochures!
Who is eligible?
- Nonprofit organizations
- Community groups
- Merchant associations
- Community benefit district organizations
| Funds awarded at two levels |
Medium Projects |
Large Projects |
| Award Size |
$15,000 - $40,000 |
$40,001 - $100,000 |
| Project Duration |
9 -12 months |
12 -18 months |
| Match Requirements |
35% match |
25% match and demonstrated history of successful project implementation |
What can funds be used for?
- Rainwater harvesting systems
- Impervious surface removal
- Green stormwater infrastructure (ie: rain gardens, permeable pavement, etc.)
- Use of native and drought tolerate plant palette in project design
Application and Guidelines
March 24, 2020 - UPDATE
In light of Mayor London N. Breed's recent shelter-in-place order, we have updated guidance regarding the 2020 Watershed Stewardship Grant cycle. Most importantly, the spring cycle will remain open with applications due April 30th, 2020 at 5:00PM. Applications and guidelines can be found on the City’s Community Challenge Grant website. Applications must be submitted electronically in a single PDF document to Kelly Teter and Lanita Henriquez. An e-mail confirmation will be sent upon receipt.
We understand that the given circumstances may delay necessary site visits and other activities critical for completing your application. If you are unable to meet the spring cycle deadline, please apply for the WSG Fall 2020 Cycle. We will release more information about the fall cycle as it approaches. We hope that you are all staying healthy and safe during these unprecedented times. Please reach out to Kelly Teter or Lanita Henriquez with any questions.
Lanita Henriquez
Watershed Stewardship Grant Winners
See and enlarged map of our grant winners.
Additional Resources
Environmental Justice (EJ) Area Map