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Water Use Rules in Baltimore, MD (2026)

3 verified water use rules for Baltimore, Maryland, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.

Verified from official government sources

Lawn Watering Restrictions

Baltimore residents face mandatory outdoor watering restrictions when the Maryland Department of the Environment declares drought conditions. DPW issues complementary advisories. Daytime sprinkler use, washing pavement, and ornamental fountain operation may be limited during designated drought stages.

Outdoor water use rules during drought

Some Restrictions

Recycled Water Rules

Baltimore explores treated effluent reuse from Back River and Patapsco WWTPs for industrial cooling, irrigation, and street-cleaning applications. State permits under MDE and the Chesapeake Bay TMDL guide quality standards. Direct potable reuse is not currently authorized.

Recycled water and reuse projects in Baltimore

Few Restrictions

Leak Reporting Duty

Baltimore DPW asks customers to report water main breaks and underground leaks to 311 promptly. Customers with documented private-side leaks may apply for billing adjustments. The EPA consent decree with DPW emphasizes leak detection across the aging system serving Back River and Patapsco WWTPs.

Water leak reporting and customer credit

Few Restrictions