Water Restrictions: Mountain View vs San Jose
How do water restrictions rules compare between Mountain View, CA and San Jose, CA?
Mountain View and San Jose have similar restriction levels.
Mountain View, CA
Santa Clara County
Mountain View enforces permanent water waste rules and follows state mandates. Outdoor watering is limited and runoff, hosing down pavement, and leaks are prohibited.
View full Mountain View rules →San Jose, CA
Santa Clara County
Valley Water sets countywide water conservation rules and drought stages. Outdoor watering is typically limited to three days per week before 9 AM or after 6 PM, with state law banning non-functional turf.
View full San Jose rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Mountain View | San Jose |
|---|---|---|
| Runoff | Prohibited | - |
| Shutoff nozzle | Required | - |
| Post-rain rule | No irrigation 48 hours | - |
| Non-functional turf | Banned at CII sites | - |
| Drought day limits | Possible | - |
| Lead agency | - | Valley Water |
| Typical watering days | - | Three per week |
| Watering hours | - | Before 9 AM or after 6 PM |
| State law | - | AB 1572 non-functional turf ban |
| Landscape ordinance | - | MWELO compliant |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Mountain View FAQ
Can I water my lawn every day?
Permanent rules allow watering but not runoff and not within 48 hours of rain; drought declarations can limit days and times further.
Does AB 1572 affect my home lawn?
AB 1572 targets non-functional turf at commercial, industrial, and institutional properties, not ordinary residential front and back yards.
San Jose FAQ
Are drip systems exempt from watering day restrictions?
Drip irrigation and hand-held hose watering are often exempt from day-of-week restrictions because they deliver water efficiently, but check your specific retailer rules during active drought stages.
Can my HOA require a green lawn during drought?
No. California Civil Code 4735 prohibits HOAs from fining members for reducing or eliminating turf irrigation during a declared drought emergency. Water-wise landscaping must be permitted.
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