Permanent water restrictions are in effect from May 1 to September 30 every year according to regulations adopted by the City Council. This odd-even sprinkling ban does not apply to private wells—only the city water supply. This ban is defined in Section 4-202 of the City Ordinances. If, after proper warning, any utility user who uses City water is in violation of the odd-even sprinkling/watering ordinance, a $25 per day fee will be charged. This ban will be enforced.

Odd-Even Restrictions

It is an odd-even ban based on house number. For example, if your street address is an odd number (5917, 4501); you may water your lawn and garden on the odd-numbered days of the month (example: May 11, 13, etc.).

If your street address is an even number (4500, 7212), you may water your lawn and garden on the even days of the month (example: June 2, 4, etc.).

These water restrictions have been enacted to encourage water conservation and to keep utility rates as low as possible. Without water restrictions, the City would have to consider building a reservoir and pumping station, at an estimated cost of $3.3 million. Your water rates would increase an estimated 20 cents per 1000 gallons, or by 20 percent.

New Seed or Sod?

Newly seeded or sodded areas of the lawn may be watered without restriction only if a permit is acquired from the Water Division. This permit is good for 12 weeks, is non-renewable, and is good only for specific lawn areas. It does not allow watering of the entire lawn if the only part has been seeded or sodded. Call or stop by the Water Division ((763) 569-3390) to obtain your permit.

Lawn and Garden Water Conservation Tips

A single lawn sprinkler spraying five gallons per minute uses 50% more water in just one house than a combination of 10 toilet flushes, two 5 minute showers, two dishwasher loads, and a full load of clothes. So be sensible and remember these tips:

• Morning is the best time to water most lawn areas. After about 10 a.m. heat steals moisture from your lawn by evaporation. Water EARLY and you can water LESS because more of the water is absorbed into your lawn.
• Don't water out of habit. Water only when your lawn needs it. To test if your lawn needs a soaking, step on the grass. If it springs back up, you don't need to water. If it stays flat, it's time to water.
• Let water sink in slowly. Lots of water applied fast mostly runs off. Let water sink in deep, to encourage deep roots. Lawns with deeper roots won't need watering as often.
• Other tips:
  • Use a broom, not a hose, to clean driveways and sidewalks.
  • Put a layer of mulch around trees and plants to slow the evaporation of moisture and discourage weed growth.
  • Check for leaks in pipes, hoses, faucets, and couplings.
  • Don't run the hose while washing your car. Use the hose just to rinse the car off.

From the American Water Works Association