Los Angeles, CA
Toilet replacement and rebates in Los Angeles
Updated · Editorial team; not yet technically reviewed
Short answer
LADWP customers who replace a 1.6-gallon-per-flush or larger toilet with a premium model using 1.1 gallons or less can get a rebate of up to $250. California has required new toilets sold since 2014 to use no more than 1.28 gallons per flush, and older single-family homes were required to replace noncompliant fixtures.
What's different in Los Angeles
LADWP's premium high-efficiency toilet rebate pays up to $250 for replacing a toilet using 1.6 gallons per flush or more with one using 1.1 gpf or less. [1]
LADWP customers can view current rebates at ladwp.com/rwr, apply through socalwatersmart.com, or call 1-888-376-3314. [1]
California Civil Code section 1101.4 required single-family homes built on or before January 1, 1994 to replace noncompliant plumbing fixtures, including toilets using more than 1.6 gallons per flush, with water-conserving fixtures by January 1, 2017. [2]
Choosing a toilet that qualifies
- Check the flush volume: the LADWP premium rebate requires 1.1 gallons per flush or less.
- Look for the WaterSense label and a MaP flushing score so a low-flow toilet still clears waste well.
- Measure the rough-in (wall to bolt center, usually 12 inches) before buying.
- Keep the receipt, model number and photos of the old toilet for the rebate application.
Older LA homes and California fixture rules
California requires water-conserving fixtures in older single-family homes, and many LA homes built before 1994 still had 3.5-gallon toilets when the rule took effect. Replacing them saves water and avoids disclosure issues when selling. See toilet installation for what installation involves, including replacing the wax ring and supply valve.
Applying for the rebate
Check current terms
Rebate amounts and rules change; confirm at ladwp.com/rwr before buying.
Install the new toilet
A plumber can replace the flange or shutoff valve if they're worn.
Apply online
Submit through socalwatersmart.com or call 1-888-376-3314.
Further reading: Toilet repair.
What Los Angeles homeowners usually check next
- SymptomToilet keeps running
Common questions
How much is LADWP's toilet rebate?
Up to $250 for replacing a 1.6 gpf or larger toilet with a premium model using 1.1 gpf or less.
How do I apply for an LADWP toilet rebate?
Through socalwatersmart.com, or by calling 1-888-376-3314. Current rebates are listed at ladwp.com/rwr.
What flush volume qualifies for LADWP's premium toilet rebate?
1.1 gallons per flush or less.
Do older Los Angeles homes have to replace old toilets?
California required single-family homes built on or before January 1, 1994 to replace noncompliant fixtures by January 1, 2017.
Will a 1.1 gpf toilet clog more often?
Not if you choose a model with a good MaP flushing score; modern low-flow designs perform well.
How long does a toilet replacement take in LA?
Usually one to three hours, longer if the flange or subfloor needs repair.
Should I replace the shutoff valve when installing a new toilet?
If it's old or stiff, yes; it's inexpensive to do while the toilet is off.
Do I need a permit to replace a toilet in Los Angeles?
A like-for-like replacement typically doesn't, but moving a toilet or altering drains does; ask your plumber.
Can renters get the LADWP toilet rebate?
Rebate rules depend on the account holder and owner consent; check the current terms.
What does a toilet rebate application need?
Typically the receipt, model information and proof the old toilet was replaced.
More plumbing help in Los Angeles
- Water Heater Replacement in Los AngelesReplacing a water heater in Los Angeles: the LADBS permit, California's earthquake strapping rule, where the straps go, and what inspectors check.
- Sewer Line Repair in Los AngelesSewer lateral repair in Los Angeles: owners maintain the upper and lower lateral to the street main, and LA Sanitation's rebate reimburses up to $2,500 of the cost.
- Drain backing up in Los AngelesWhy LA drains back up: grease in kitchen lines and the city's 6,600 miles of sewer, the FOG program that cut overflows 94%, and what to check before calling.
- Water Line Repair in Los AngelesLADWP's service line inventory found no lead or galvanized-requiring-replacement lines, including customer-owned ones. What that means for LA water line repairs.
- Toilet Installation in CaliforniaCalifornia's fixture law for pre-1994 homes: when a remodel permit triggers toilet replacement, the 2017 deadline and seller disclosure.
- Toilet Installation: the full guideWhat to check before buying a new toilet (rough-in, bowl shape, height, flush rating) and what a proper toilet installation includes.
- Plumbing in Los AngelesLocal water, housing and climate conditions, and the calls Los Angeles homes need most.
How other cities handle it
- Toilet replacement and SAWS rebates in San AntonioSAWS toilet rebates in San Antonio: the current high-efficiency toilet rebate, which toilets qualify, SAWS's history of free toilet programs, and installation tips.
- Toilet replacement and rebates in MiamiMiami-Dade Water and Sewer toilet rebates: the pre-1996 home rule, senior homeowner rebate amounts, WaterSense-only models, inspections, and multifamily limits.
- Toilet replacement and rebates in AlbuquerqueABCWUA rebates in Albuquerque: $200 for replacing high-flow toilets, $50 for upgrading 1.6 gpf models.
- Toilet replacement and rebates in TucsonTucson Water's toilet rebate: $100 per MaP Premium toilet for pre-2011 homes, flush-volume rules, and the gray water rebate that pairs with it.
- Replacing a toilet in Seattle: rebates and free toiletsSeattle toilet replacement: the Saving Water Partnership's $100 rebate for replacing pre-2004 toilets, free toilets for income-qualified homeowners.
- Replacing a toilet in Denver: the Denver Water rebateDenver Water's toilet rebate: up to $100 for a WaterSense toilet averaging 0.8 gallon per flush or less, two per home per 10 years, apply within 90 days.
- Dallas toilet replacement: free toilets and rebatesDallas Water Utilities' New Throne for Your Home: up to two free high-efficiency toilets or $90 rebates for replacing pre-1994 toilets. Check current status.
Sources (2)
- LADWP, Residential and Commercial Programs and Rebates · checked 2026-10-03
- California Legislative Information, Civil Code § 1101.4 · checked 2026-10-03