Frequently Asked Questions
Is it possible to water during winter months without risk of citations?
The mandatory odd/even watering schedule is in effect all the time. It’s possible to receive a citation for violating the odd-even watering program any time of the year. Also, citations can be issued for watering when temperatures are at or below 32 degrees. Watering during freezing temperatures wastes water and causes treacherous, icy streets.
Bermudagrass lawns are dormant during the winter and only need additional water during extended dry times. Cool-season lawns, like tall fescue, only need 1" of water every two weeks.
How long will a first-offense watering violation remain on file before a second offense violation be fined?
The municipal court maintains the records of prior convictions for five years. The municipal prosecutor determines what charge will be filed.
Will the water conservation program allow me to fill or refill my pool?
Yes. Filling a pool is generally a one-time effort and we highly recommend that pools be covered when not in use. This prevents pool water from evaporating thus reducing the need to refill it.
Am I allowed to wash my car in the driveway?
Car washing at home is allowed until Stage 4 of the water conservation program is implemented. At this stage, residents are required to use a commercial car wash with water recycling operations. When and if you wash your car at home, please use a hose nozzle with a turn-off valve. This will prevent water from running down the driveway and into the street.
Are residents that use water wells included in the City’s water conservation program?
They are not. However, we highly advise those on well water to voluntarily follow the outdoor water conservation measures. Wells are underground aquifers that can become low or dry from overuse or lack of rainfall. Customers who irrigate with a water well are required to place a sign in their yard (i.e. “Water Well in Use Only).
Are golf courses required to abide by the outdoor watering program?
Golf courses that use Oklahoma City water to irrigate are required to abide by the water conservation program. However, some golf courses use well water to irrigate and are not included in the City’s program.
Will public pools be closed when stricter water conservation measures are implemented?
Public pools will remain open. Splash grounds may close if a ban on outdoor water use is in place. Public pools and splash grounds are places families can enjoy the summer and cool off on extremely hot days.
Do splash grounds re-circulate water?
The splash grounds do not re-circulate water, however, they only turn on when someone is there to turn them on.
How do residents comply with odd/even watering if they have an irrigation controller that cannot be programmed for odd/even watering?
Most controllers manufactured in the past 10 years can be programmed for odd/even watering. Refer to the manufacturer’s instruction manual for information on odd/even programming or check out our irrigation scheduling page for help. However, if a controller cannot be programmed for odd/even watering, Oklahoma City residents can apply for either a 2 day per week lawn watering variance or a 1 day a week lawn watering variance. These variances allow residents to water on specific days, depending on street address of the property.
Does water conservation mean I can’t water my gardens and flower beds every day?
Not at all. The odd/even watering stage pertains to yard watering with an irrigation system or sprinkler. You can hand water your landscaping with a hose and use soaker and drip irrigation any time, except during Stage 5 Outdoor Watering Ban.
Will every other day be enough to keep my yard green and healthy?
Most yards do not need to be watered every day. It’s best to water deeply and infrequently. Drought tolerant lawns, such as bermudagrass, require about one inch of water per week during the summer. It's best to water deeply and infrequently to encourage deep root growth. Using Oklahoma native and adapted plants in your landscape reduces watering needs so you can water less.
Why do we remain under mandatory watering schedules even when lakes are full?
Odd/even watering is now in place all the time. It’s the new norm for watering outdoors with OKC treated water. Whenever you decide to water your yard, please do so according to the last number of your building address or until another watering stage is implemented. We never know when it will rain or how long it will last. Oklahoma has a long history of drought and heavy rainfall events. Using water efficiently, no matter the weather, protects our water supply.
Why did the City of Oklahoma City implement a water conservation program and how long will it last?
The water conservation schedules help us manage demand on our water system, prepares our community for drought or dry conditions, and supports a reliable water supply for all Oklahoma City customers. In April 2013, the Oklahoma City Council adopted a five-stage progressive watering program, based on the combined accessible capacity of all City of Oklahoma reservoirs.
Water use efficiency is an ongoing effort to remind us to use our water supply wisely, manage demand on our system, and prepare our city for times of drought.
Additional questions? Contact us!
WaterConservation@okc.gov