SCAQMD Kicks Off Electric Lawn Mower Rebate Program on Earth Day

DIAMOND BAR, Calif., May 2, 2017 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Starting on Earth Day, April 22, Southland residents can register to save up to $250 on a new cordless-electric lawn mower through the South Coast Air Quality Management District's Lawn Mower Rebate Program. This year's program provides added convenience and flexibility to residents by allowing them to purchase any approved cordless electric lawn mower throughout the year.

"Residents can save money when they purchase an air pollution-free electric lawn mower," said SCAQMD Chairman William A. Burke, Ed.D. "This new program allows residents to shop for an electric lawn mower when and where it's convenient for them."

Now in its 15th year, the program now offers a new format. Instead of requiring participants to visit select locations throughout the region on specified dates as in previous years, participants now have the flexibility to purchase a new cordless electric lawn mower throughout the year either online or from a manufacturer-authorized retailer or dealer, including hardware and home improvements stores. 

Participants will then turn in their old gasoline lawn mower to an approved scrapper to receive a rebate based on the purchase price of a new battery operated electric lawn mower. The rebate program will be implemented on a first-come, first-served basis. Participants must begin the rebate process within 60 calendar days after the purchase.

"No longer will participants have to worry about pulling a starter cord, filling up a gas can at the gas station or possibly spilling fuel in their garage," said Burke. "These mowers require less maintenance and are quieter than gas-powered models, plus they have zero-emissions, so it's a win-win for the consumer and clean air."

The electric lawn mower purchased must be new -- not used, previously owned or factory reconditioned. The lawn mower must be zero-emission electric and battery-powered. Corded electric mowers are not eligible. It must be a push or self-propelled mower specified for residential use and have a minimum one-year manufacturer's warranty. Electric lawn mowers purchased after Mar. 3, 2017, will be eligible for the rebate program.

The rebate amounts are as follows:

To take advantage of this great offer, residents must first register at www.aqmd.gov/lawnmower or call 1-888-425-6247. Participants must reside in SCAQMDs four-county jurisdiction.

The program is funded through SCAQMD's Air Quality Investment Program, which is financed by Southland companies that pay a fee in lieu of offering rideshare incentives as required by SCAQMD's Rule 2202.

SOURCE South Coast Air Quality Management District