Water restrictions in Downey, CA — also called the watering schedule, outdoor irrigation rules, or drought ordinance — set which days and hours you can run sprinklers or irrigation.
Downey follows MWELO requirements for water-efficient landscaping. New/renovated landscapes over 500 sq ft must meet Maximum Applied Water Allowance. Water district restrictions on watering days and times apply.
DMC Section 7353 establishes water conservation requirements. Landscape irrigation with potable water is permitted only between 7:00 PM and 8:00 AM. Watering is limited to 2 days per week October through April and 3 days per week May through September. Even addresses water on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and/or Saturdays; odd addresses on Mondays, Wednesdays, and/or Fridays. Turf areas should be limited or eliminated. New landscaping must use drought-tolerant plants. Water runoff onto adjoining properties is prohibited. Using potable water for decorative fountains without recirculation, washing buildings without shut-off nozzles, and watering hardscapes is prohibited. Recycled water irrigation is not subject to time restrictions.
Water suppliers can fine up to $500/day for violations. The City enforces through a 20% voluntary reduction program during drought emergencies.
Downey, CA
Downey regulates leaf blower noise under its general noise ordinance. Gas-powered leaf blowers must comply with the 85 dBA construction equipment limit and o...
Downey, CA
Downey prohibits amplified music that exceeds ambient noise levels by more than 5 dBA at the property line. Quiet hours from 10 PM to 7 AM carry stricter lim...
Downey, CA
Industrial noise in Downey must not exceed established ambient levels by more than 5 dBA at the receiving property line. Corrective factors apply during dayt...
Downey, CA
California law (AB 1236) requires streamlined permitting for EV charging stations. Downey must provide expedited permits for residential EVSE installations. ...
Downey, CA
Driveway modifications in Downey require approval from Planning and possibly Engineering. Paving projects in the front yard area must meet development standa...
Downey, CA
Downey restricts oversized vehicle parking on public and residential streets. RVs must obtain permits under DMC 3182.5. Emergency parking allowed for 24 hour...
Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Los Angeles County.
See how other cities in Los Angeles County handle water restrictions.
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