A Florida city wants homeowners to rip out their grass lawns, and it is willing to pay big bucks for them to do so.

Big picture view: The city of Tampa's Florida-Friendly Landscaping Incentive Program offers rebates to the homeowners it services who replace traditional, thirsty grass in their yards with native plants that are drought-friendly.

By splitting the cost of the project with the city, residents can receive up to $3,000 from the Tampa Water Department.