Outdoor Watering Restrictions FAQs

Starting Thursday, September 7, 2023, SPRWS customers are requested to observe odd/even watering schedules and watering time restrictions.

Odd/Even Watering:

SPRWS customers with odd-numbered addresses are asked to limit outdoor watering to odd-numbered days of the month.
SPRWS customers with even-numbered addresses are asked to limit outdoor water use to even-numbered days of the month.

Watering Time Restrictions:

SPRWS customers are requested to limit outdoor watering to the cooler times of the day - before noon or after 6:00 pm - to minimize evaporation.

FAQs

Click on the items below to expand and get answers:

- Commercial uses of outdoor water, including nurseries or community gardens.
- Customers should attempt to water vegetable gardens, bushes, and flowers in accordance with the watering schedules. If necessary, they may water on additional days with a hand-held hose.
- Trees may be watered any day with a dripping hose, bucket, or tree watering bag as needed.
- Watering of new sod or seed if daily watering is required. It is recommended that any planting of new sod or seeds be delayed until the fall or until drought conditions subside.
- Other exceptions for uses that promote public safety and public health may be granted by SPRWS. Exception requests must be submitted to the SPRWS customer service team through email: waterinquiries@ci.stpaul.mn.us or by phone: 651-266-6350.
- Water grass only when needed. Most lawns only need an inch of water a week.
- Adjust lawn mower to height of 2.5 - 4 inches. Taller grass shades roots and holds moisture better.
- Leave lawn clippings on your grass, this cools the ground and holds in moisture.
- Take shorter showers using low-flow showerheads instead of baths.
- Turn the faucet off while you shave or brush your teeth.
- Fill the sink to wash dishes by hand instead of letting the water run.
- Run dishwashers and washing machines only when fully loaded.
- More tips can be found on our Water Conservation page.