Lost Pines Groundwater Conservation District Rebate

Updated January 2026

The Lost Pines Groundwater Conservation District (LPGCD) offers a rainwater harvesting rebate to encourage both residential and large property owners to incorporate rainwater collection systems, helping conserve groundwater resources while fostering community-wide water stewardship. This program rewards Bastrop and Lee County residents who install rainwater collection systems with $1 per gallon of storage capacity, up to a maximum of $5,000.

Program details and qualifications:

• Applicants must reside or own land within the jurisdictional boundaries of the LPGCD.
• Applicants are required to successfully complete an approved Rainwater Harvesting 101 information session and provide the issued completion certificate when submitting their application. These informational workshops, held twice per year in each county, will cover system design, installation basics, and the benefits of rainwater harvesting.
• Applicants must submit detailed system plans, including a layout and specifications, for review and approval before becoming eligible for a rebate.
• An inspection visit will be scheduled by the LPGCD staff after installation of system is complete.

Rainwater Harvesting System Rebate program amount:

• The maximum rebate amount per household is capped at $5,000.
• Rebate amounts are calculated at a rate of $1.00 per gallon of storage capacity of the entire rainwater harvesting system.
• For example, you purchase a 1,000 gallon tank; install gutter, overflow and miscellaneous fittings. You would receive a $1,000 rebate that covers the complete system including the tank, gutter, miscellaneous fittings, etc.

Rainwater Harvesting System Site Plan Instructions:

• Site plan can be hand drawn
• Show the location of cistern/tank
• Show the outline of catchment area including (dimensions, gutter locations etc.)
• Provide a description of cistern/tank (size, type, base structure)
• Provide a labeled diagram of the system’s components (e.g., collection area, gutters, downspouts, first-flush diverters (if applicable), filtration systems, storage tank(s), pump systems (if applicable), overflow pipe.

System and Policy Details:

• Rebate applications must be complete and are subject to verification and availability of funds.
• LPGCD reserves the right to verify and inspect the installed rainwater harvesting system.
• LPGCD reserves the right, at its sole and absolute discretion and at any time, to change any or all of the Rebate Program Policy or to cancel the rebate program without prior notice.
• Allow up to six weeks for your completed application to be processed to receive a check.
• Original itemized receipt(s) of tanks are required to process the rebate application.
• Collected rainwater may not be used for drinking.
• Tanks are required to be on a level base constructed of material able to support the cistern at full capacity at all times.

Apply for the Rebate in Two Ways:

• Apply online where you can submit the required information along with the required plans.
• Download the Lost Pines Ground Water Control District rainwater harvesting rebate form. You can submit the rebate form and the required site plans to Claire Marks, Education & Outreach Coordinator.

About the LPGCD
The Lost Pines Groundwater Conservation District is dedicated to the protection and conservation of groundwater resources in Bastrop and Lee Counties. Through educational programs, community outreach, and strategic resource management, the District strives to ensure sustainable water supplies for current and future generations.