Due to extreme high temperatures and increased demand on our water system, the PUA is moving to Stage 3 watering restrictions effective immediately. This additional conservation measure is necessary to help manage demand and protect the reliability of our water supply.
The PUA Drought Contingency Plan allows the PUA to move to Stage 3 when the 20% target reduction established for Stage 2 demand-management measures is not achieved.
Irrigation system use is limited to once per week, only during the hours of 6:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m., based on the designated watering schedule by address. We will be actively monitoring usage and notifying those not in compliance. Thank you for your cooperation in helping us preserve our water supply.
Under Stage 3, outdoor irrigation is limited to one day per week, with no change to the established days of the week:
- Monday: Residential addresses ending in 1 or 3
- Tuesday: Residential addresses ending in 2 or 4
- Wednesday: Residential addresses ending in 5 or 7
- Thursday: Residential addresses ending in 6 or 8
- Friday: Residential addresses ending in 9 or 0
- Saturday: Commercial properties, including large landscapes such as HOA common areas
- Sunday: No scheduled outdoor watering
Watering Hours and Approved Methods
Irrigation is limited to 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. on the designated watering day. This four-hour window applies to hose-end sprinklers and irrigation systems. Please adjust your irrigation systems and automatic timers to comply with these new requirements.
Hand watering is also limited to 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. on the property’s designated watering day. Permitted methods include:
- Hand-held hose
- Faucet-filled bucket or watering can of five gallons or less
- Soaker hose
- Tree gator watering bags
New landscapes may only be installed if they can comply with the mandatory watering schedule. No variances to the Stage 3 watering schedule will be approved.
Keep track of your water usage through our customer portal so you can see your water usage just the way we see it.
A beautiful landscape doesn’t have to require excessive watering. In Central Texas, choosing the right plants, improving soil health, and watering efficiently can help you maintain an attractive yard while using significantly less water.
Commonly Asked Questions
Water evaporates in the heat during the day, so in order to prevent over-irrigation, we ask you only use your irrigation system during the hours posted on the designated days. We do not want overnight watering so our tanks don't get low overnight before the morning rush.
Only between the hours of 6am and 10am.
We are able to monitor water usage through our H20 portal the connects with our AMI smart meters. We also have random patrols based on complaints from people who live in the neighborhood.
WTCPUA may implement restrictions based on the capacity of the treatment plant or other Drought Contingency measures.
- 1st offense: Warning Email
- 2nd offense: $500 fine
- 3rd offense: $1,000
- 4th offense: West Travis County Public Utility Agency can disconnect water service after adequate notice to the customer and the customer must pay $500 reconnection fee
Irrigation uses up to 70% of our treated water supply. During a drought or in the hot summer months, use of treated water for irrigation increases even more, putting supply at risk for normal, everyday consumption.
Tips for Creating Drought Resistant Lawns
- Water your lawn less: Watering your lawn less often and more deeply helps build grow strong roots that will capture and utilize the water more efficiently. If you have an automatic system, set it to the day allowed for your address and a time within the allowed period when there is no sun and temperatures are a bit cooler. This helps avoid evaporation and ensures the water being used has a chance to soak deeply into the ground.
- Remove weeds: Weeds compete with your grass for soil and nutrients. Create a plan to remove your weeds so that your grass can stay healthy.
- Raise Mowing Height: Mowing the grass too short in a drought can stress it and make it more susceptible to damage. To help your lawn cope better, increase the mowing height by at least 25% and minimize foot traffic on the grass. Remember to adhere to the 1/3 blade mow rule, particularly in hot weather conditions.
- Plant Drought-Tolerant Grass: Drought-tolerant grass types such as Buffalograss, Bermuda, or Zoysia need less water compared to regular grass and can endure dry spells better. Keep in mind that many warm-season grasses may become dormant during severe conditions, such as extended droughts. Note: During dormancy, grass appears brown, dry, and devoid of life. The blades lose their upright position and lie flat, creating a matted appearance, which is also common in dead grass. Dormant grass, though seemingly lifeless, is alive at its roots and crown and has the potential to bounce back. Dormancy serves as a physiological process that grasses employ to shield themselves from heat and drought.
- Maintain a Healthy Soil: It is recommended to test your soil annually and adjust it as needed to maintain the correct nutrients, cation exchange, and the essential water, oxygen, and microbial activity for a healthy lawn. Having a vibrant lawn before summer heat or drought sets in is crucial for its resilience. A detailed soil test will provide guidance on necessary nutrients, aeration, and other requirements for your lawn.
- Install an Efficient Irrigation System: Installing efficient irrigation systems can enhance water usage, ensuring your lawn receives the precise amount of moisture when needed, minimizing wastage. Contemplate the installation of a drip irrigation or smart sprinkler system that adapts watering schedules according to weather patterns and soil moisture levels. These innovative systems can prevent overwatering, directing water to the root zone for deep root development and a lush, healthy lawn.
- Use Sustainable Lawn Care Practices: Opting for sustainable lawn care practices can greatly enhance your lawn’s resilience to drought conditions.Here are some tips to consider:
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- Leave grass clippings on the lawn after mowing to act as natural mulch and provide soil nutrients.
- Ensure clippings are evenly distributed and not more than ¼ inch thick.
- Avoid over-fertilization, as it can raise water needs and weaken the grass.
- Opt for a mix of fast and slow-release fertilizers to boost long-term soil health.
- Refrain from fertilizing during extreme temperatures to maintain your lawn’s well-being.
- Use Drought Resistant Plants: By using drought-tolerant plants, you can lower your lawn’s water needs, decreasing your total water consumption. These plants are well-suited to survive in dry conditions and can endure extended drought periods. Think about including varieties such as sedum, yarrow, lavender, and native grasses that flourish in arid environments, bringing vibrant colors and textures to your outdoor space.