Fitchburg, WI Landscaping Rules: Water Restrictions (2026)

Section 40-564 lets the director of public works declare a water watch when needed to hold pumpage or system demand below a preset level, or to comply with an electric utility's request to cut peak load. A watch only urges voluntary lawn watering restrictions, which can apply citywide or by alternating street side, and can run all day or during set hours; notice goes to the mayor, common council, and local news media. If a watch is not enough, Section 40-565 lets the mayor, on the public works director's recommendation, declare a water warning to avoid sustained low pressure, protect fire reserve levels, offset the loss of a well or tower, or maintain a sustainable aquifer.

A warning authorizes mandatory lawn watering restrictions, again citywide or by street side and by time of day, and can also prohibit establishing new lawns, whether sodded or seeded; notice goes to the council, local media, and every customer by mail. Section 40-566 is the top tier: the mayor, on the director's recommendation, can declare a water emergency to protect public health and safety, authorizing mandatory restrictions on any water use by any class of customer, and even termination of water service to protect health and safety; notice is hand-delivered to every customer in addition to the council and media.