The 2026 ozone season officially begins Sunday, March 1, continuing through October 31. According to a news release, the City monitors air quality throughout the year, but during this time, our region is more at risk of experiencing high ozone levels.
Ground-level ozone is an invisible, harmful air pollutant that can impact public health, the environment and the local economy. Hot, sunny days and regional agricultural burning can accelerate ozone formation.
To coincide with the start of ozone season, the City is launching its Lawn Care Rebate Program on March 1. The program helps residents reduce air pollution by offering rebates for cleaner lawn equipment alternatives. The City has allotted $10,000 for 2026 rebates, which will be distributed on a first come, first served basis.
Residents may apply for rebates on qualifying electric lawn equipment purchases made on or after January 1, 2026. Program details, eligibility requirements and rebate amounts are available at wichita.gov/cleanandgreen.
By switching to electric lawn equipment, residents can reduce harmful emissions, help improve their neighborhood air quality, and decrease fuel and maintenance costs.
During high ozone days, the City of Wichita adjusts certain municipal operations to help reduce emissions. Residents and businesses are invited to join the City in working to reduce ozone by making simple changes to their daily routines:
- Using Wichita Transit;
- Carpooling, biking or combining errands;
- Limiting vehicle idling, especially at drive-thru establishments;
- Postponing mowing, painting or solvent use until after 6 p.m.; and
- Fueling vehicles after 6 p.m.
Residents are encouraged to stay engaged throughout ozone season by signing up for Ozone Alerts at wichita.gov/ozone, visiting beairawareks.org for regional air quality information and following the City of Wichita on Facebook for forecasts, tips and updates.
