Search

The drought continues and so do Stage 2 watering rules

Make sure your irrigation system is set to water only on your day.

Late January showers were a welcome relief, but they didn’t put an end to the ongoing drought. We entered 2023 with very dry soil and a hefty rainfall deficit. This means Stage 2 watering rules – and enforcement of them – are still in effect.

As a reminder, under Stage 2, landscape watering with a sprinkler, irrigation system or soaker hose is allowed only from 5-10 a.m. and 9-12 p.m., one day a week., based on the last number of your street address. You can still hand-water with a hose-end nozzle any time.

SAWS water enforcers are patrolling neighborhoods, including gated communities, and issuing fines – not warnings. So make sure your irrigation system is set to water only on your day within the watering “windows.”

And if you were thinking about planting new grass this year, please don’t. This could be another challenging summer for lawns.

Remember to visit GardenStyleSA.com for weekly watering advice and landscaping tips to keep your landscape thriving – even in drought.

Picture of Sarah Gorton
Sarah Gorton
Sarah Gorton is a Planner with the SAWS Conservation department. She is passionate about bats and native plants, with a particular fondness for horseherb! Sarah has completed certifications through Texas Master Naturalist and Native Plant Society. When she isn't working on her research on the use of native grasses for uptaking pollutants at UTSA, she can be found making stained glass or hanging out with her two Chihuahuas.
Share
Facebook
Twitter
Pinterest
Email
Print
Dig Deeper

Find expert advice on garden basics, landscape design, watering and year-round maintenance.