Water Conservation

Water Conservation banner, sprinkler, water conservation made simple

Reducing indoor and outdoor water use saves energy, reduces our carbon footprint, and protects the regional supply - and using less water saves you money.  

Water conservation programs for residents

The City of Lafayette delivers no-cost and affordable outdoor water conservation programs for your home through our partnership with local non-profit Resource Central. 

Choose one or all three programs through Resource Central

  1. Lawn Removal. Check out the Lawn Removal program for discounts water drop icon with gradient of blueswhen a section of your lawn is removed.
  2. Garden In a Box. Starting March 1, garden kits start at $119 with a $25 discount available to Lafayette residents.
  3. Slow the Flow. Schedule a consultation for a free outdoor irrigation system evaluation.

Space is limited for each program and you must register to secure your participation at Water Eligibility Tool - Resource Central. Learn more about these programs by downloading our Waterwise flyer. 

2023 water efficiency rebates

The City of Lafayette encourages residents to conserve water by using several of the programs the City offers. Lawn removal and a transition to a water-wise garden is the best way to conserve water and save money on your water utility bill. However, water-efficient irrigation equipment is another option for residents to reduce water usage. The Outdoor Water Efficiency Rebate offers homeowners within the City rebates on certain outdoor water-conserving products. Learn more about the rebates.

2023 Waterwise yard seminars

Join Resource Central this spring and summer to learn all about waterwise landscaping, promoting pollinators, and conserving water. Upcoming topics include: Intro to Permaculture, Planting  for Pollinators, and Turf Removal. View the full lineup of over 20 Waterwise Yard Seminars on their website and register at: ResourceCentral.org/Seminars  
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Water Conservation Ordinance

list of Water Restrictions graphic with a water hose

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Lafayette City Council enacted a permanent water conservation ordinance into the City's Municipal Code on Nov. 6, 2013, putting in place watering restrictions to protect the City’s water resources. It was determined that these practices are beneficial conservation practices for Lafayette regardless of drought conditions.

  • No watering of outdoor landscaping between the hours of 10am and 6pm except:
    • Watering by hand with a hose equipped with an automatic shut-off valve
    • City-owned facilities: golf course, athletic fields
    • Commercial agriculture
  • (Effective since June 2022) Outdoor irrigation is limited to a maximum of three days per week
  • No overrun of water onto any area not covered by vegetation such as sidewalks, curbs, driveways, streets, and other paved areas

  • No washing of paved areas such as driveways with a hose

Water Conservation Plan

The City's 2018 Water Conservation Plan includes programs that benefit residents, local businesses, and our community.

Water Conservation Tips of the Week

Irrigation not allowed 10am-6pm

Conservation Tips 3 days a week watering and allowable hours

New 3-day irrigation limit

3 days per week watering limit

Fix broken sprinkler heads

Conservation Tip of the Week_fix broken sprinkle heads

Let grass grow longer

Conservation Tip of the Week lawn mower

Watering 2 days a week is good

Conservation Tip of the Week water only two days

Adjust irrigation when it rains

Conservation Tip of the Week_rain

Watch water conservation videos

Learn more about water conservation by reviewing the videos about our programs and hearing from a Lafayette resident about her experience with the Garden in a Box program. 

Water Conservation Tips

Residents are encouraged to implement water reduction actions by discovering ways to reduce water use at their home or business as spring and summer approach. Learn more about these recommendations to reduce water use, save money, and protect future water supplies.

The following are standard recommendations to help customers reduce water use, save money and protect future water supplies. 

  1. Wait to water lawns. Don't turn on sprinklers too early in the season. Leaving lawns dormant longer will save water, and will not compromise the longevity of your lawn.  April is too early to go automatic, plan on programming your sprinkler system to start in May or June.
  2. Water less frequently.  Watering twice a week will make grass roots grow deeper and allow the grass to last longer without water. As a reminder, outdoor irrigation is limited to a maximum of three days per week. 
  3. Water in the evening, night, or early morning. Watering landscapes in the early morning or at night will help reduce water loss. During the daytime heat, less water will be available to plants due to loss from evaporation and wind. 
  4. When it rains, water accordingly. Watch the weather and adjust watering days and times accordingly. 
  5. Let grass grow longer before cutting it. Raise lawn mower blades and protect lawns from heat by letting grass grow longer (3-3.5”).  A taller lawn provides shade to the roots and helps retain soil moisture, so your lawn requires less water.
  6. Water lawns, plants, and trees - not roads and sidewalks. Sweep driveways and sidewalks with a broom instead of spraying with a hose – but please not down the storm drain or into the street gutter. 
  7. Fix leaks. Check your sprinkler system monthly for broken sprinkler heads and damaged irrigation lines.  Take advantage of Lafayette's free sprinkler evaluations through our partner Resource Central. 
  8. Plan ahead and plan efficiently. If possible, delay new lawn installations for a non-drought year and avoid planting during the mid-summer heat. If you’ve already purchased a water-wise garden this year, plant early in the morning or evening in May.