ColoradoScaping & Water Restrictions Solutions
Denver Water Restrictions Are Here. ColoradoScaping Is The Solution.
Grade A Excavation & Landscape is doing its part to conserve water. We specialize in helping homeowners convert to ColoradoScaping, Zero Scaping, or reduce grass watering areas to meet the new demands of our climate.
The 2026 Water Crisis: What It Means for Denver Homeowners
With the South Platte River Basin snowpack hitting historic lows, Denver Water has implemented mandatory Stage 1 drought restrictions and new tiered drought surcharges. Maintaining a traditional Kentucky bluegrass lawn is becoming financially and practically unsustainable for homeowners. The restrictions are not just a temporary inconvenience; they represent a fundamental shift in how we must manage our outdoor spaces in Colorado. The new rules strictly limit watering to two days per week, and the financial penalties for exceeding these limits are significant. Homeowners are now faced with a choice: continue to pour money into a struggling lawn, or invest in a sustainable, water-wise landscape that thrives in our semi-arid climate.
Mandatory Restrictions: Watering is now strictly limited to 2 days per week.
Drought Surcharges: New tiered pricing means high-irrigation households will pay significantly more.
The Solution: Converting to a water-wise landscape reduces outdoor water use by 50–75%.
ColoradoScaping vs. Zeroscaping: Your Options
Whether you want a lush, plant-rich garden or a clean, minimalist rock design, Grade A has over 20 years of experience building landscapes that thrive in Colorado's semi-arid climate. We understand that every homeowner has unique preferences and requirements, which is why we offer customized solutions tailored to your specific needs.
ColoradoScaping (Formerly Xeriscaping)
A water-conserving approach that still uses plenty of plants. We use drought-tolerant native species, soil amendment, and efficient drip irrigation to create a vibrant, colorful yard that saves water. This approach is ideal for homeowners who want to maintain a lush, green aesthetic while significantly reducing their water consumption. ColoradoScaping incorporates a variety of textures and colors, ensuring that your yard remains visually appealing throughout the year.
Zeroscaping
A minimalist approach dominated by rock, gravel, and hardscape, with very few sparse plants. It focuses on using the absolute minimum amount of water and maintenance possible. Zeroscaping is perfect for those who prefer a clean, modern look and want to eliminate the need for regular watering and upkeep. While it may not have the lushness of a traditional lawn, a well-designed zeroscaped yard can be striking and elegant.
Financial Incentives: Learn About Available Rebates
Denver's rebate programs are generous, and we encourage all homeowners to explore them before breaking ground. While Grade A Excavation does not process or manage rebate applications, we build landscapes that align with water-wise principles. Taking advantage of these programs can significantly offset the initial cost of your landscaping project, making it a smart financial decision in the long run.
LTAP (Large Turf Area Program): Up to $10,000 (50% of cost) for residential projects. Learn more at https://www.denverwater.org/residential/rebates-and-conservation-tips/remodel-your-yard
Denver Water Xeriscape Incentive: Up to $2,000 for eligible projects. Learn more at https://www.denverwater.org/residential/rebates-and-conservation-tips/remodel-your-yard
Aurora GRIP: Up to $4,000 for Aurora residents. Learn more at https://www.auroragov.org/residents/water/water_conservation/rebates
Visit Denver Water's official website to apply for these programs.
Trusted by Denver Homeowners for Over 20 Years
"Grade A Excavation is one if not the best company I have had the pleasure to work with! Hugh and his team went above and beyond to help us out. We had our front yard leveled and had mulch put down and it looks amazing!" — Sophia A., Denver, CO
"Hugh runs a great team at Grade A. Those are honest, hard working folks operating with the highest integrity..." — M R., Arvada, CO
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What are the 2026 Denver water restrictions?
Denver is currently under Stage 1 drought restrictions. Lawn watering is limited to 2 days per week (odd addresses: Wed/Sat, even addresses: Thu/Sun), with no watering allowed between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m.
What is the difference between ColoradoScaping and zeroscaping?
ColoradoScaping (formerly xeriscaping) uses drought-tolerant plants, mulch, and efficient irrigation to create a lush but low-water yard. Zeroscaping uses almost no plants, relying heavily on rock, gravel, and hardscape for maximum water reduction.
Can my HOA stop me from ColoradoScaping in Colorado?
No. Under Colorado law (SB23-178), HOAs in single-family communities must allow xeriscape and drought-tolerant landscaping, and cannot require more than 20% turf coverage.
Transforming Outdoor Spaces, One Yard at a Time.