Hawaii County, HI Landscaping Rules: Water Restrictions (2026)
Water restrictions in Hawaii County, HI, also called the watering schedule, outdoor irrigation rules, or drought ordinance, set which days and hours you can run sprinklers or irrigation.
Key Facts
- Authority
- DWS Rules Section 3-2
- Typical cut
- 25% use, 50% irrigation
- Triggers
- Drought, low tanks, equipment
- Priority
- Health & safety uses first
- Catchment homes
- Not county-restricted
Summary
The County of Hawai'i Department of Water Supply can restrict water use during shortages, drought, or equipment problems, often ordering 25% cuts (50% for irrigation). Its Rules let it 'restrict the use of water by any reasonable method of control.'
Whenever, in the Department's opinion, special conservation measures are advisable in order to forestall water shortage and a consequent emergency, the Department may restrict the use of water by any reasonable method of control.
Full Breakdown
For DWS-served customers, water restrictions come from the Department of Water Supply, not a landscaping ordinance. DWS Rules and Regulations Section 3-2(2) states that when 'special conservation measures are advisable in order to forestall water shortage,' the Department 'may restrict the use of water by any reasonable method of control' and may limit quantities taken from any facility. In practice, DWS issues district notices (e.g., South Kohala, Hāmākua) requiring at least a 25% cut in overall use and up to 50% for irrigation. Health and safety uses get priority over other uses. Off-grid catchment homes are not covered by these county restrictions.
Violations & Fines
Negligent or wasteful use of water may lead the Department to discontinue service if not corrected within a reasonable time after written notice (DWS Rule 3-13(2)(d)).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can the Big Island order me to cut water use?
What happens if I waste water?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Hawaii County
How Hawaii County compares: Cities with the Strictest Water Restrictions·Compare Hawaii County to another location·View the Hawaii landscaping rules overview
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