Kirkland, WA Landscaping Rules: Water Restrictions (2026)

Kirkland receives potable water through the Cascade Water Alliance, which purchases wholesale supply primarily from Seattle Public Utilities' Cedar River and South Fork Tolt River watersheds. During normal years no mandatory restrictions apply, but Cascade Water Alliance and Seattle Public Utilities have a four-stage Water Shortage Contingency Plan: Advisory (voluntary conservation), Voluntary, Mandatory, and Emergency. During Advisory and Voluntary stages, residents are asked to limit lawn watering to twice a week, water early morning or evening, fix leaks promptly, and use efficient irrigation. Mandatory and Emergency stages can prohibit new landscape installation, car washing, decorative fountains, and other non-essential outdoor use. Kirkland encourages drought-tolerant landscaping, soaker hoses, and rainwater harvesting. The Saving Water Partnership supports Kirkland residents with rebates and education. Unlike many California cities, day-of-week watering schedules are not routinely imposed in Kirkland except during drought emergencies.