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Yard and trees

Check current local water rules before outdoor watering

Drought restrictions and utility instructions can change faster than a saved lawn or irrigation schedule.

Homeowner guidance with clear stop points

When it usually needs attention

Ongoing home-care habit

EPA WaterSense says to follow current regional water-use restrictions and adjust irrigation for conditions; no static app schedule overrides a live rule.

When this guide applies

Applies when drought conditions or local watering restrictions are relevant.

What to do

Check the current water-utility or local-authority rules, pause prohibited watering, repair or report leaks, and adjust only the authorized controller settings for actual weather and plant needs.

Applies when: Applies when drought conditions or local watering restrictions are relevant.

Who should handle it: The person authorized to control outdoor water follows current utility and local rules; tenants and shared-property residents report leaks or schedule conflicts to the owner or association.

Tools

  • Current utility or local-authority restriction page
  • Water bill or leak alert
  • Exact irrigation-controller manual when present

Parts and supplies

  • No replacement part until a leak or failed component is identified

Safety gear

  • Weather-appropriate sun protection and closed-toe footwear for a ground-level leak check

Before you start

  • Confirm the address or service area covered by the current rule
  • Know who controls shared irrigation

Power, water, or fuel shutoffs

  • Use only an authorized, known irrigation or hose shutoff; do not operate utility or shared-building valves

Cleaner or chemical limits

No cleaner, herbicide, pesticide, fertilizer, dye, or improvised chemical is part of checking or following a watering restriction.

Stop and get help when

  • Do not enter a flooded or energized controller area, dig near utilities, open a backflow device, or override a utility lockout
  • Stop for a broken main, unsafe pressure, contaminated water, or erosion threatening a structure

Who to call: Use the water utility or local authority for rule questions and the responsible owner plus qualified irrigation, plumbing, electrical, or landscape service for repairs.

Reviewed sources