Sarasota County is helping homeowners make a difference in local water quality through the RainCheck program, an incentive rebate initiative that promotes stormwater infiltration projects across the community.
The RainCheck ideology is rooted in the belief that the more rainwater that can soak into the ground, the better the quality of water in creeks, rivers and ultimately the ocean. Cleaner water supports healthier wildlife, stronger recreation opportunities and key drivers of the local economy.
Through RainCheck, property owners who live in unincorporated Sarasota County and the City of Sarasota can receive financial rebates for installing small-scale Best Management Practices, or BMPs, that reduce stormwater runoff. Approved BMPs include rain gardens, bioswales, modified downspouts, downspout planter boxes and impervious replacements such as permeable pavers.
Rebate amounts vary by project type. Modified downspouts are eligible for up to $50, bioswales and rain gardens up to $500 each, downspout planters up to $1,000, impervious replacement at $5 per square foot up to $5,000, and alternative BMPs up to $5,000.
To participate, homeowners must live in an eligible area and apply before beginning work. After an inspection and Notice to Proceed from the county’s NEST Coordinator, projects must be completed within 60 days. Once a final inspection is approved, applicants can expect rebate checks to arrive within two weeks.
As noted, eligibility is limited to property owners in unincorporated Sarasota County and the City of Sarasota. Properties in Venice, North Port and Longboat Key are not eligible due to separate utility systems. Renters and apartment residents do not qualify, but condo owners may apply if their name matches the county’s property records.
Each property may receive rebates for up to two BMPs. Rebates are available only for initial installations and previously installed BMPs are not eligible.
The application window for RainCheck will reopen October 1 and run to June 1, 2026. Residents can confirm eligibility, review program handbooks and view installed BMP locations through the county’s website at scgov.net/raincheck
To follow are some examples of finished projects:
