Watering rules are back in San Antonio

SAN ANTONIO (KTSA News) — The San Antonio Water System announced that watering rules are back in effect for the city starting today.

“After a wet start to the summer, recent dry weather resulted in the aquifer drop in aquifer levels,” said SAWS Conservation Director Karen Guz, “But remember that SAWS has Conservation programs and advice available to reduce outdoor watering.”

Under the Stage 1 rules, sprinklers and irrigation systems can only be used before 11 a.m. and after 7 p.m. one day per week on the designated watering day.

The designated watering day is determined by the last digit of a resident’s street address:

• Monday – 0 or 1
• Tuesday – 2 or 3
• Wednesday – 4 or 5
• Thursday – 6 or 7
• Friday – 8 or 9

Residents are allowed to wash vehicles once per week on Saturday and Sunday with no water waste. Water waste, including water running down the street, is prohibited year-round.

Officials said watering days begin and end at midnight and overnight watering is not permitted. The rules allow residents to water using a handheld hose no matter the day or time.

Water conservation rules are triggered when the 10-day average of the Edwards Aquifer drops to 600 feet or below.