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.

You will follow assigned watering days.

 

You will find the here, the  4 Stages of Drought as listed by Denver Water.  As the irrigation season unfolds, it is important that we do our part to conserve.

Lawn watering will only be allowed on assigned days and further only before 10 a.m. or  after 6 p.m. 

 

 Hand watering or use of a low spray drip system for trees, shrubs, perennials and vegetables 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. If a variance is granted, it 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.  

No variance will be granted after May 31, 2026.

VARIANCE Form.pdf

 

Enforcement and Fines:

The Wheat Ridge Water District encourages our customers to follow our 2026 Watering Rules, but  should repeat violations occur, there may be instances that result in fines and/or additional action.

 

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.

IMPORTANT DROUGHT.pdf

 

Click on the Resources below for information and inspiration, as we navigate our Stage 1 Drought.