Water restrictions in New York, NY — also called the watering schedule, outdoor irrigation rules, or drought ordinance — set which days and hours you can run sprinklers or irrigation.
NYC DEP can impose outdoor watering restrictions during drought. Year-round rules prohibit wasting water, and private sprinkler systems must meet NYC Plumbing Code backflow requirements.
The NYC Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) manages the water supply for New York County and can issue drought watch, warning, or emergency orders that restrict outdoor water use. Typical restrictions include alternate-day lawn watering, bans on washing sidewalks with potable water, and limits on decorative fountain refilling. Outside of drought, NYC 15 RCNY 20-01 and 20-02 require efficient water use and prohibit water waste such as running taps, broken valves, or non-repaired leaks. Sprinkler systems installed on private property must comply with the NYC Plumbing Code, including backflow prevention and in some cases rain-sensor shutoff. Water bills for residential properties are metered through DEP, giving owners direct financial incentive to conserve. Fire hydrants may not be opened except by FDNY or under a DEP-approved spray cap program.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
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