Water restrictions in Costa Mesa, CA β also called the watering schedule, outdoor irrigation rules, or drought ordinance β set which days and hours you can run sprinklers or irrigation.
Costa Mesa requires approved irrigation systems for new development under its landscaping standards. Automatically time-controlled sprinklers are required for commercial, industrial, and multi-family sites. Drought restrictions from the Mesa Water District apply.
Under CMMC landscaping standards, all landscaped areas must be provided with an approved irrigation system. Automatically time-controlled sprinkler systems are required for commercial, industrial, and residential sites with more than two dwelling units. Single-family homes must also provide adequate irrigation for landscaping. New development must comply with the state Model Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance (MWELO), including water budgets and efficient irrigation design. Costa Mesa is served by the Mesa Water District, which implements drought-stage restrictions during water emergencies. California's permanent water conservation regulations also apply. Water waste including runoff, watering during rain, and irrigating during windy conditions is prohibited.
New development failing to meet irrigation requirements may have permits withheld. Water waste during drought restrictions is subject to progressive fines from warnings to $500 per violation.
Costa Mesa, CA
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Orange County.
See how other cities in Orange County handle water restrictions.
See how Costa Mesa's water restrictions rules stack up against other locations.
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