Water restrictions in San Diego County, CA — also called the watering schedule, outdoor irrigation rules, or drought ordinance — set which days and hours you can run sprinklers or irrigation.
San Diego County enforces outdoor water use restrictions in unincorporated areas. Landscape irrigation is limited to before 10 AM and after 6 PM. Runoff, overspray, and watering impervious surfaces are prohibited. Turf that cannot be irrigated without waste is not allowed in new landscaping.
The County enforces water conservation ordinances aligned with the San Diego County Water Authority and California State Water Resources Control Board requirements. Landscape irrigation is restricted to before 10 AM and after 6 PM to minimize evaporation. Irrigation that causes runoff onto sidewalks, streets, or adjacent properties is prohibited. Watering impervious surfaces (driveways, sidewalks) is not allowed. Turf in median strips and other areas that cannot be irrigated without causing runoff or overspray is prohibited. New development projects must comply with the County's Landscape Ordinance (Section 86.709) requiring water-efficient landscaping, appropriate plant selection, and efficient irrigation systems. The county offers turf replacement rebates through the Landscape Optimization Service program.
Water waste violations may result in warnings, fines, and ultimately water service restrictions. Fines vary by water district.
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See how San Diego County's water restrictions rules stack up against other locations.
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