Fishers, IN Landscaping Rules: Water Restrictions (2026)

Outdoor water use in Fishers is regulated by the Effective Conservation of Water subchapter, Chapter 52 (Ord. 0803090, passed 9-8-09, as amended). It applies to water drawn from the Citizens Water / Indiana American public water system within the city (§ 52.01). Under § 52.04, when that system is in a condition of water shortage the Mayor may declare a 'water warning' or 'water emergency' (defined in § 52.02 by reservoir drawdown levels). Section 52.05(A) then makes it unlawful during a warning or emergency to: sprinkle, water, or irrigate grass (except new sod/seedling installed earlier that year, hand-watered with a shut-off nozzle); wash cars, trucks, or mobile equipment except as legally required; clean sidewalks, driveways, or other outdoor surfaces with water; fill empty swimming pools; install new sod lawn; use hydrants except for fire suppression; or operate non-recycling fountains. During a water emergency, § 52.05(B) additionally bans essentially all outdoor watering, though vegetable gardens may be hand- or container-watered every other day. Nurseries are exempt to preserve inventory, and the Mayor may exempt recycling car washes, golf-course tee boxes/greens (every other day), and certain Parks Department watering (§ 52.05(C)-(D)). During normal and advisory conditions only voluntary conservation under the Wise Water Use Policy applies (§ 52.03). Fishers has previously declared mandatory bans under this ordinance.