When to Water
Lawn watering is governed by TMWA rules and local ordinances. There are only two major, simple-to-follow watering regulations.
1. Water your lawn on assigned days based on your address
- ODD: If the last number in your home address is odd (1, 3, 5, 7, or 9), water only on Sundays and Thursdays.
- EVEN: If the last number in your home address is even (0, 2, 4, 6, or 8), water only on Wednesdays and Saturdays.
- Commercial and multi-unit residential properties water on Tuesdays and Fridays.
- Monday is a no-watering day for both residential and commercial customers. This day is for the water treatment plants to replenish water storage.
2. Watering is prohibited between 1 and 5 p.m.
- Watering early in the morning between 3 and 9 a.m. is ideal because wind and temperatures are lower, minimizing evaporation.
- Never water during the heat of the day or when conditions are windy.
How to Water
Many Truckee Meadows residents know that they can water responsibly and still maintain a healthy yard throughout the summer. Here are some tips to keep your lawn and landscaping healthy:
- Deep intermittent watering works best in hot weather because it builds stronger, longer roots and a healthier lawn.
- Use the "Water and Wait" method. Water until puddles form but stop before run off occurs (usually 10-15 minutes). Then turn your sprinklers off and allow the water to soak in (wait 1 to 2 hours). Repeat this cycle until water soaks in 6-8 inches deep. To measure the depth of saturation, push a screwdriver into the soil. In properly watered soil, the screwdriver should go in with ease. Avoid overwatering as it can cause disease in your lawn.
- Check your sprinkler clock routinely, and adjust watering times according to your landscape's needs.
- Water when temperatures are cooler to minimize evaporation. Never water on rainy or windy days, or between 1:00 and 5:00 p.m.
- For gardens and small areas that need extra attention, hand watering with a nozzle attached to the hose is permitted any day, any time.
Learn more on why water conservation is important.
