Water restrictions in Charleston, SC — also called the watering schedule, outdoor irrigation rules, or drought ordinance — set which days and hours you can run sprinklers or irrigation.
Charleston follows Charleston Water System guidelines for outdoor watering. During drought conditions, the city implements mandatory water restrictions including odd/even watering schedules.
Charleston Water System provides water to city residents and may implement outdoor watering restrictions during drought conditions. Typical restrictions include odd/even address-based watering schedules, limiting irrigation to early morning or evening hours, and prohibiting midday watering. The city follows the SC Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) drought response framework. During normal conditions, voluntary conservation is encouraged but not mandated.
Violations of mandatory water restrictions during drought result in warnings followed by fines for repeat offenses.
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Charleston County.
See how other cities in Charleston County handle water restrictions.
See how Charleston's water restrictions rules stack up against other locations.
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