Water restrictions in Chicago, IL — also called the watering schedule, outdoor irrigation rules, or drought ordinance — set which days and hours you can run sprinklers or irrigation.
Chicago Department of Water Management enforces water conservation guidelines for lawn and landscape irrigation. Weekday watering is subject to restrictions, while weekends and holidays have no restrictions. The city encourages stormwater capture for reuse in irrigation under Chapter 11-18.
The Chicago Department of Water Management promotes water conservation for landscape irrigation. During weekdays, watering restrictions may apply to reduce peak demand on the municipal water system. Weekends and holidays have no watering restrictions, though sensible use is encouraged. The city recommends watering in early morning or evening hours to reduce evaporation. Chapter 11-18 of the Municipal Code (Stormwater Management) encourages capture and reuse of stormwater for irrigation, allowing up to 10 percent of a detention facility to be set aside for capture and reuse. Chapter 11-12 (Water Supply and Service) governs the city's water distribution system and conservation policies.
Excessive or wasteful water use may result in warnings or fines from the Department of Water Management. Violations of stormwater management requirements under Chapter 11-18 may result in permit denial or enforcement action.
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Cook County.
See how other cities in Cook County handle water restrictions.
See how Chicago's water restrictions rules stack up against other locations.
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