Water Restrictions: Green Valley vs Oro Valley
How do water restrictions rules compare between Green Valley, AZ and Oro Valley, AZ?
Green Valley has fewer restrictions than Oro Valley.
Green Valley, AZ
Pima County
Tucson Water and the Arizona Department of Water Resources (ADWR) regulate water use in the Tucson Active Management Area, which covers most of Pima County. ADWR Assured Water Supply rules (ARS 45-454) require new subdivisions to demonstrate a 100-year water supply. Tucson Water enforces stage-based drought restrictions.
View full Green Valley rules →Oro Valley, AZ
Pima County
Oro Valley Water Utility enforces seasonal watering schedules: before 8 AM or after 6 PM in summer, before 10 AM or after 6 PM in winter. Turf removal rebates available.
View full Oro Valley rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Green Valley | Oro Valley |
|---|---|---|
| ADWR Authority | Tucson Active Management Area | - |
| 100-Year Supply | ARS 45-454 required for new subdivisions | - |
| Drought Stages | Tucson Water 3-stage restrictions | - |
| CAP Water | Colorado River allocation supplements supply | - |
| Reclaimed Water | Available for landscape irrigation | - |
| Summer Watering | - | Before 8 AM or after 6 PM (Apr-Oct) |
| Winter Watering | - | Before 10 AM or after 6 PM (Nov-Mar) |
| Turf Removal Rebate | - | Up to $1/sq ft |
| Provider | - | Oro Valley Water Utility |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Green Valley FAQ
Can I water my lawn anytime in Pima County?
It depends on drought stage. Tucson Water enforces mandatory outdoor watering schedules during Stage 2 and may ban outdoor watering (except established trees) during Stage 3. Properties on private wells follow ADWR rules.
Do new developments need to prove water supply?
Yes. ARS 45-454 requires all new subdivisions in the Tucson AMA to demonstrate a 100-year Assured Water Supply before plat approval.
Oro Valley FAQ
Can I water my lawn at noon in Oro Valley?
No. From April through October, outdoor irrigation is only allowed before 8 AM or after 6 PM. Winter hours are slightly more flexible at before 10 AM or after 6 PM.
Does Oro Valley offer rebates for removing grass?
Yes. The Town offers turf removal rebates, typically around $1 per square foot, for converting high-water-use turf to desert-adapted, low-water landscaping.
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