Small businesses and public agencies may be eligible for up to 100% off the cost of new equipment. Large businesses may be eligible for up to 85% off the cost of new equipment, with a 15% minimum cost-share requirement. Participants can receive incentives of up to $15,000 for the purchase of various pieces equipment, including ride-on mowers, walk-behind mowers, edgers, string trimmers, hedge trimmers, chainsaws, pole saws, and brush cutters. There is no cap on the total funding a participant can receive.
Gas-powered yard care equipment poses a significant source of localized air pollution in Valley neighborhoods, as these small engines lack emission controls and emit substantially more pollutants than newer passenger vehicles. To put it into perspective, one gas mower produces emissions equivalent to that of 12 late-model cars operating for the same duration.
This grant program assists landscape maintenance professionals with transitioning to electric landscape equipment prior to state-wide regulations requiring manufacturers to meet zero emission engine standards beginning in 2024.
Valley entities interested in this program should visit www.valleyair.org/ZELEto access program guidelines and complete the application process before purchasing equipment. For inquiries, please reach out to grants@valleyair.org or contact Air District staff at 559-230-5800. The District has a similar grant program to assist the general public in purchasing electric lawn care equipment for residential use.
