2026 Watering Rules
Stage 1 Drought Mandatory Restrictions are now in effect.
Current Conditions warrant changes and expectations of the continuing conditions of our reservoirs dictate that we require our customers to follow the following rules effective immediately until further notice.
Lawn watering will only be allowed on assigned days and further only before 10 a.m. or after 6 p.m.
Single-family residential are limited to two (2) days per week
Addresses ending in EVEN numbers can irrigate Sunday and Thursday
Addresses ending in ODD numbers can irrigate Wednesday and Saturday
All others (including Multi-family, Commercial and HOA's) can irrigate Tuesday and Friday
Hand watering or use of a low spray drip system for annuals, perennials and vegetable may only be done before 10:00 a.m. and after 6 p.m.
Rules for Watering new seed and sod:
Customers may request a Variance application from Wheat Ridge Water District, from the assigned watering days, to water new seed or sod. This variance will allow the customer 21 days to water that seed or sod daily, but still require they water before 10 a.m. and after 6 p.m.
This variance will be granted given the customer understands the water consumed will be billed at our normal tier costs as well as potential surcharges for water consumed. They will be exempt from fines associated with watering daily, only during the variance 21 days.. After the 21 days has ended, the customer will be required to follow their assigned watering days going forward.
Enforcement and Fines:
The Wheat Ridge Water District encourages our customers to follow our 2026 Watering Rules, but should repeat violations occur, theremay be instances that result in fines and/or additional action.
- First Violation: Warning
- Second $ 250.00
- Third $ 500.00
- Fourth $1000.00
Please do your part to preserve our water supply.
Rules for all customers to follow:
- The Wheat Ridge Water District prohibits washing of driveways, sidewalks and patios during the Stage 1 Drought.
- Water should not be allowed to pool in gutters, streets and alleys.
- Any Sprinkler system that is leaking must be repaired within days from discovery.
- Do not irrigate while it is raining or during high winds
- When washing your car, use a hose nozzle with a shut off valve.
Tips to conserve water:
· Run your dishwasher and washing machine when you have a full load.
· Turn off the water while you wash your face and brush your teeth.
· Fix leaks promptly such as dripping faucets, toilets, irrigation lines and old sprinkler heads.
· Install low flow water features and replace appliances with energy-efficient models.
· Cutting shower time from 10 to 5 minutes.
· Landscaping changes using Xeriscaping techniques.
We hope that all customers will consider other means as well to conserve water.
If you irrigate with a Well, it is encouraged that you follow assigned watering days, and that you post notifications at your residence that you are using your Well. We do not regulate Wells, but your neighbors would appreciate the notification they can see.
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