SupportScapes

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The SupportScapes program aims to enhance stormwater management by incentivizing residents to replace traditional turf grass, invasive plants, bare soil, and impervious areas with native plants. These deep-rooted species effectively absorb and slow runoff, reduce erosion, and minimize the need for harmful chemicals. By mimicking natural habitats, SupportScapes promote better water quality, support local biodiversity, and protect our ecosystems.

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Requirements

What Are The Requirements?

  • A SupportScape installation must include a minimum of (7) distinct plant species with a minimum of (15) specimens present.
  • Planting must successfully demonstrate the replacement of lawn, turf, invasive species, bare soil, areas affected by erosion, or impervious areas.
  • All plant species must be native to the Southeastern US. *We strongly recommend choosing species native to Tennessee, with local ecotypes preferred 

Am I Eligible?

  • Must be a City of Chattanooga resident
  • Must be up to date on your stormwater fee and property taxes (check here)
  • Applicants must sign the Homeowner’s Agreement, which includes a 5 year maintenance commitment. *If you are renting, the owner of the home must sign our homeowner's agreement.

Apply to host a SupportScapes demonstration workshop. Workshops are a great opportunity to educate members of the community on SupportScapes, including how they function and their environmental benefits. Receive planting labor assistance, RainSmart experts on site to help, and lunch provided by the City. Workshop opportunities include plant installation and seasonal maintenance guidance.


Rebate Eligible Costs

Receive a reimbursement for 75% of your rebate-eligible costs, up to $1000 per property. The following items are examples of “rebate-eligible costs.” They are items necessary to the construction of a SupportScape. Other items which may only serve as decorative or non-functional additions do not qualify. The City shall, in its sole and reviewable discretion, determine whether a cost submitted by the Homeowner is rebate-eligible. Undocumented costs are not rebate-eligible. The City of Chattanooga will approve reimbursement based on the availability of funds

Materials:

  • Native plants, seeds, live stakes
  • Mulch
  • Compost
  • Coir logs
  • Jute erosion matting
  • Equipment rental 

How Do I Apply?

1

Submit your application

Apply Now
Apply Now
2

You will receive an email to schedule an in-person site assessment.

3

At the time of site assessment, a representative will help you determine your site conditions and answer any questions relating to design and plant selection. *Site assessments are limited to 1 hour

4

Create your planting design. Choose from the approved templates or create your own. 

Use the diagram and plan examples to guide you

Approved Templates Diagram and Plan Examples
Diagram and Plan Examples Approved Templates
5

Create your plant species list! *List must include the scientific/Latin name and common name of each species.

Native Plant Guide Wildflower.org Plant Database
Wildflower.org Plant Database Native Plant Guide
6

Sign the Homeowner’s Agreement

Homeowner's Agreement
Homeowner's Agreement
7

Deliver your planting design, species list, and homeowner’s agreement for approval.

8

Once your design has been approved, you can begin installing your SupportScape. Be sure to keep all receipts and plant tags for species confirmation and proof of purchase. *RECEIPTS MUST BE ITEMIZED TO BE ELIGIBLE FOR REIMBURSEMENT

9

When you have completed your SupportSpace, submit your rebate-eligible receipts and a photo of your completed project.

10

Once we have received your documentation, you will receive a link to schedule your final site inspection.

11

A representative will come to assess your completed project and collect photo documentation. If your SupportScape meets the program criteria, we will begin processing your reimbursement.

* If you have already planted native plants in your yard and it has been over 30 days since planting was completed, you are not eligible for reimbursement for that planting through SupportScapes.

Contact Us

Stormwater
Call
(423) 643-5877 (423) 643-5877
General RainSmartContact
(423) 643-5877 (423) 643-5877