Smart Irrigation Program

Rachio controllerCoon Rapids launched the Smart Irrigation Program in July 2022. As part of the program, property owners can purchase smart irrigation controllers at a discount from retail price. The purpose of the Smart Irrigation Program is to help property owners save money and water. Using less water helps Coon Rapids to be a sustainable and resilient city.

The program may offer controllers again in 2024, depending on grant funding. Sign up for the 2024 program interest list to be notified when and if controllers become available again. 

2023 program pricing: 

  • 8-zone controllers: $35+tax (retail price $200)
  • 16-zone controllers: $45+tax (retail price $250)

The Smart Irrigation Program is made possible with funding from the Metropolitan Council and the Clean Water, Land and Legacy Amendment. 

  1. About the Program
  2. Recycle Your Old Controller
  3. FAQ

Controller Type

Coon Rapids is selling 8- and 16-zone Rachio controllers. Each property owner is invited to participate in this program once.  

  • 8-zone controllers: $35+tax (retail price $200)
  • 16-zone controllers: $45+tax (retail price $250)

Smart controllers are certified by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to save your home at least 20% of your outdoor water use. They work by connecting to your home's Wi-Fi and reading local weather reports and forecasts to decide whether or not your yard needs additional water. Smart controllers do this automatically and can be controlled by your smartphone, computer or smart home device.

Eligibility

In order to be eligible for a controller, all criteria listed below must be met. Failure to meet any of the following criteria may result in compatibility or functionality issues with your controller:

  1. Must have a currently functional irrigation system. New construction and new developments are not eligible for the program.
  2. Must be a Coon Rapids property owner and be connected to the city's water supply. 
  3. Must have in-building Wi-Fi access. Check your Wi-Fi strength at your existing controller by making sure that your smartphone picks up at least two bars. Poor Wi-Fi may necessitate that you purchase a Wi-Fi booster. The city program does not cover the cost of a booster.
  4. Must have a smartphone (necessary to program and to operate the controller).

Purchase

Participants must install and program your new controller (or hire someone to do this work) and provide the city with a photo verifying installation was successful. A limited number of controllers will be available each year. Smart controllers will be distributed on a first come, first served basis and at the discretion of the City of Coon Rapids. The city reserves the right to refuse any application for any reason it sees fit.

Controllers are purchased online. You will need to set up an account prior to purchase. If you have already registered for recreation classes or made other purchases with the City of Coon Rapids in the past, use your existing account. 

For assistance, please call 763-767-6458 or email smartirrigation@coonrapidsmn.gov. 

Rachio will ship your controller directly to you within 2 weeks. Save the shipping box for purchase verification.

Install

Once you receive your controller, use Rachio's online installation instructions to get the controller up and running. If your controller is located outside, your must purchase a weatherproof enclosure on your own - they are not offered through the Smart Irrigation Program. Weatherproof enclosures are available on Rachio's website for $30. 

You must verify receipt and installation of the controller by sending a picture of the installed controller alongside your shipping box with your name and address to smartirrigation@coonrapidsmn.gov. See below for an example picture.

Installation verification example