Water Restrictions: Lexington vs Waltham
How do water restrictions rules compare between Lexington, MA and Waltham, MA?
Lexington and Waltham have similar restriction levels.
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 →Waltham, MA
Middlesex County
Waltham follows Massachusetts Water Resources Authority and state drought management protocols. Outdoor watering is typically restricted to odd/even days or specific morning/evening hours during summer.
View full Waltham rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Lexington | Waltham |
|---|---|---|
| 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 supplier | - | MWRA and local Waltham sources |
| Typical restriction | - | Before 9 AM or after 5 PM |
| Odd/even day rule | - | Based on street address |
| Fines | - | 50-200 dollars per violation |
| Drought level | - | Varies; check mass.gov/drought |
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.
Waltham FAQ
Can I water my lawn in Waltham in summer?
Typically yes, but only during early morning or evening hours, often on alternating days by address. Check current restrictions.
Are vegetable gardens exempt from watering rules?
Hand-watering of food gardens is usually permitted even under restrictions. Automatic irrigation is not.
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