Water Use Rules in Westminster, CO

Westminster maintains 97 local ordinances across all categories, and 2 of those deal specifically with water use rules. Here is a breakdown of what the city actually requires, what is prohibited, and where Westminster falls on the strict-to-permissive spectrum compared to other cities.

Recycled Water Rules

Westminster limits reclaimed and non-potable water under Chapter 12 of Title VIII to landscape irrigation on commercial, industrial, park and golf course sites, plus common areas in residential developments. The rules flatly bar reclaimed water from single-family residential use, any indoor use, and irrigation of food crops, and every new development must apply through Public Works and Utilities before connecting.

Key details: Governing chapter: W.M.C. Title VIII, Chapter 12. Barred use: Single-family residential irrigation. Barred use: Indoor use and food crop irrigation. New irrigation systems: Must connect if available at construction. Conversion deadline: 180 days after notice of availability.

Connecting to the reclaimed/non-potable system, or beginning non-potable water use, without the City's prior approval violates Section 8-12-2(F). Operating a private localized reclaimed water treatment system anywhere in Westminster is barred outright under Section 8-12-3(B). Utilities Service Rules adopted by the Director of Public Works and Utilities under Section 8-12-1 govern billing, and non-compliant connections can be denied or disconnected under the City's water utility enforcement authority.

This is one of the stricter rules in Westminster's municipal code. If you are unsure whether your situation complies, it is worth checking with the city before proceeding.

Leak Reporting Duty

Westminster treats an unrepaired leaking irrigation system as unlawful water waste under Code Section 8-7-25(A)(2). The Director of Public Works and Utilities enforces it with a written warning first, then escalating $50 and $100 fines added to the water bill.

Key details: Violation: Failure to repair leaking irrigation, § 8-7-25(A)(2). Enforcer: Director of Public Works and Utilities. Compliance deadline: 30 days after violation notice. 2nd violation fine: $50 added to water bill. 3rd+ violation: $100 fine, possible service suspension.

A leaking irrigation system left unrepaired draws a written warning for a first offense, a $50.00 charge added to the water bill for a second offense within a year, and a $100.00 charge plus possible water service suspension for a third or later offense, under Section 8-7-25(B), W.M.C. A written appeal is available within 30 days of the notice.

The Bottom Line

Westminster's water use rules rules are a mixed bag. Some areas are strict, others are relaxed, and the details matter. The best approach is to check the specific rule that applies to your situation rather than assuming Westminster is broadly strict or permissive.

All of the above reflects Westminster's municipal code as of our last review. If you need specifics on fines, exemptions, or filing requirements, the detailed ordinance pages linked above have the full breakdown.