New water restrictions in Sacramento start next month. Here’s what this means for you
The fall season is settling into Sacramento, which means watering rules for the city will change soon.
As a part of a water conservation ordinance from 2017, the city of Sacramento set up restrictions on when businesses and residents water their lawns.
From Nov. 1 to Feb. 28, individuals can only water their landscape one day per week, on Saturday or Sunday, at any time of day. Watering on a weekday is not allowed.
These rules are less stringent compared to the guidelines for March 1 to Oct. 31, in which individuals must follow a schedule based on even and odd numbered addresses.
Are there any exceptions?
Yes. According to the city, you are exempt from the watering schedule if you have one of the following:
- Drip irrigation
- Watering with a hose and spray nozzle
- Smart controllers that have been validated by city staff
- Potted plants
- Edible gardens
- New landscaping, up to 30 days after installation
- When there are two or more consecutive days above 100 degrees
What if I don’t follow the watering schedule?
If you don’t comply, you’ll get a written notice first.
But a second violation within 365 days warrants a $50 fine. A third one makes $200, and the fourth and each subsequent notice makes $1,000.
If you see someone not following the water schedule, you can report the incident to the city by calling 311 or 916-264-5011 or emailing a report to 311@cityofsacramento.org.