Water restrictions in Newton, MA — also called the watering schedule, outdoor irrigation rules, or drought ordinance — set which days and hours you can run sprinklers or irrigation.
Newton follows MWRA water supply with seasonal irrigation limits; MassDEP drought declarations may trigger mandatory outdoor watering restrictions enforced citywide.
Newton receives its drinking water from the Massachusetts Water Resources Authority (MWRA) Quabbin and Wachusett reservoir system. During normal conditions, outdoor watering is generally unrestricted, but Newton Department of Public Works issues advisory or mandatory restrictions when MassDEP declares drought status or when MWRA requests conservation. Typical restrictions limit lawn irrigation to odd-even day schedules, prohibit watering between 9 AM and 5 PM (to reduce evaporation), and exempt hand-held hose watering of gardens and newly installed landscape. Private well users are subject to the Massachusetts Water Management Act through MassDEP. Violations of mandatory restrictions can result in fines under Newton ordinance. Residents should check Newton DPW website for current drought status.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Middlesex County.
See how other cities in Middlesex County handle water restrictions.
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