Drought Frequently Asked Questions

What to know about drought and water supply in Raleigh


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Can I water my yard? What happens during Stage 1 Restrictions? Which watering method am I using? Are City Splash Pads still open? What are the rules for gardens and athletic fields? Learn More

Can I water my yard?

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! 

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:

MethodHow it WorksWhen to Use
Handheld HoseHeld and operated manually by youAny day
Hose-End SprayerA nozzle you hold and control (spray gun)Any day
Hose-End SprinklerA device that sits on the ground and runs unattendedScheduled 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

Department:
Water

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