Water Restrictions: Lexington vs Somerville
How do water restrictions rules compare between Lexington, MA and Somerville, MA?
Somerville 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 →Somerville, MA
Middlesex County
Somerville buys water from the MWRA and typically has no mandatory outdoor water restrictions. Voluntary conservation is requested during declared state drought stages.
View full Somerville rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Lexington | Somerville |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | - |
| Water source | - | MWRA Quabbin Reservoir |
| Mandatory restrictions | - | None in effect |
| Drought rule | - | Voluntary during state drought |
| Preferred watering time | - | Early morning or evening |
| Utility contact | - | Somerville Water Dept |
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.
Somerville FAQ
Can I water my lawn any day?
Yes. Somerville has no mandatory day or time restrictions.
Are there drought rules?
Voluntary conservation is requested during state-declared droughts; no fines currently apply.
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