Published 3/30/2026 at 4 p.m.Updated 4/15/2026 at 3 p.m.
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https://raleighnc.gov/water-and-sewer/services/drought-frequently-asked-questions
04/16/2026 3:57 pm
Drought Frequently Asked Questions
What to know about drought and water supply in Raleigh
Under our current policies, yes – provided you use a hose-end spray gun. This flexible approach allows you to maintain your lawn and landscaping any day of the week.
Vegetable Beds: Usually, these are permitted once per week. However, if you’re using a handheld hose-end spray gun, you’re free to water them any day you’d like.
What happens during Stage 1 Restrictions?
Stage 1 is triggered when our water supply drops significantly below normal levels. At this stage, we ask everyone to follow specific reduction measures to prevent a serious shortage.
Heads up: Failing to follow these regulations during Stage 1 can result in penalties.
Permitted Activities (Stage 1)
In-ground Irrigation Systems: Automatic or Manual
Odd Addresses: Tuesdays, Midnight – 10 a.m.
Even Addresses: Wednesdays, Midnight – 10 a.m.
Hand-held, Bucket, & Drip Irrigation: Allowed any time.
Other: Athletic fields, swimming pools, and car washing are currently permitted.
Prohibited
We do not issue permits for New Landscape Establishment during Stage 1.
Pro Tip
Aim for no more than one-half inch of water per week for your landscape; it's often all your grass needs!
Helpful Links
Which watering method am I using?
It helps to know the difference between tools, as the rules change based on how you’re applying water:
Method
How it Works
When to Use
Handheld Hose
Held and operated manually by you
Any day
Hose-End Sprayer
A nozzle you hold and control (spray gun)
Any day
Hose-End Sprinkler
A device that sits on the ground and runs unattended
Scheduled days
Are City Splash Pads still open?
Yes! There are currently no restrictions on City splash pads. In most cases, splash pads use recirculated water and use very little water overall especially compared to irrigation. If drought conditions get worse, we might reevaluate, but for now, they are open for everyone to enjoy.
What are the rules for gardens and athletic fields?
We prioritize keeping our community active, so formal athletic fields can be irrigated as needed. For your personal turf and flower beds:
Irrigation Systems: Stick to your assigned one-day-per-week schedule.
Soaker Hoses & Spray Guns: These are exempt from the one-day-a-week rule! They are excellent tools for keeping your flowers and prize vegetables healthy even during dry spells.
Learn More
You can stay up to date on drought conditions and water supply levels by visiting Water Supply and Drought Status. Raleigh Water will continue sharing updates each week as conditions change.
Contact
Ed Buchan Raleigh Water Assistant Director - Water Distribution