Jackson County, MS Landscaping Rules: Water Restrictions (2026)

Jackson County manages water through local utility regulations and Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality (MDEQ) oversight. Mississippi is generally water-rich, with Jackson County benefiting from the Pascagoula River, Escatawpa River, and coastal aquifer sources. The Pascagoula River is one of the longest free-flowing rivers in the lower 48 states. Most Jackson County residents receive water from municipal systems in Pascagoula, Ocean Springs, Moss Point, and Gautier, or from the Jackson County Utility Authority in unincorporated areas. MDEQ oversees water use permits under MS Code Ann. §51-3-1 and may mandate restrictions during drought emergencies. During fall drought periods (which Jackson County experienced in 2010, 2016, and 2023), restrictions may include odd-even address watering schedules, time-of-day limitations (no watering 10 AM to 4 PM to reduce evaporation), and prohibited uses like car washing and pool filling during severe drought conditions. Mississippi municipalities may limit lawn irrigation to 2 to 3 times per week during active conservation periods. New construction projects may be encouraged to install drought-tolerant landscaping and efficient irrigation systems. Hurricane-impacted areas may face temporary restrictions during recovery when water systems are damaged. Permanent water restrictions are rare compared to arid western states.