Water Restrictions: Lexington vs Lowell
How do water restrictions rules compare between Lexington, MA and Lowell, MA?
Lowell has fewer restrictions than Lexington.
Lexington, MA
Middlesex County
Lexington belongs to the Massachusetts Water Resources Authority (MWRA) and purchases approximately 2 billion gallons of water annually. The town imposes seasonal outdoor watering restrictions through Select Board declarations, typically running early June through mid-September. Recent restrictions have included voluntary limits on outdoor water use between 5:30 AM and 8:30 AM (e.g., the August 2022 restriction effective through October 14).
View full Lexington rules →Lowell, MA
Middlesex County
Lowell draws drinking water from the Merrimack River and generally has abundant supply, so routine outdoor watering restrictions are limited. Drought-stage restrictions on irrigation can be imposed by the state or city during Massachusetts Drought Management Plan declarations.
View full Lowell rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Lexington | Lowell |
|---|---|---|
| Water Supplier | MWRA (~2B gallons/yr) | - |
| Restrictions | Seasonal, by Select Board declaration | - |
| Typical Hours | Watering before/after specific morning window | - |
| Contact | DPW 781-274-8300 | - |
| Source | - | Merrimack River |
| Baseline | - | No year-round limits |
| Drought trigger | - | State declaration |
| Typical restriction | - | One day per week |
| Best practice | - | Water at dawn or dusk |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Lexington FAQ
When can I water my lawn in Lexington, MA?
When the Select Board declares an outdoor-water restriction, watering is typically limited to specified early-morning or evening hours. When no restriction is active, normal outdoor watering is allowed but conservation is encouraged. Confirm current status with DPW at 781-274-8300.
Can I install a separate meter for irrigation?
Yes. Lexington's water policy allows installation of a second meter for outdoor watering so the water used outdoors is not billed for sewer service. Contact the Water/Sewer Division for installation requirements.
Lowell FAQ
Are there lawn watering restrictions in Lowell?
Generally no year-round restrictions because Lowell uses Merrimack River water, but drought-stage rules may apply during state declarations.
Who announces drought restrictions?
The Massachusetts Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs and the Lowell Regional Water Utility notify customers.
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