Reedley, CA Landscaping Rules: Water Restrictions (2026)

Reedley Municipal Code Section 8-1-8 prohibits the use of water for purposes other than those stated in the user's application, and anyone seeking to use water for a new purpose must submit a new application. Section 8-1-12 establishes a tiered system of water conservation restrictions activated by city council resolution on the recommendation of the Public Works Director. At Level 1 through Level 3, mandatory measures include prohibition on filling or refilling ornamental lakes or ponds (except to sustain aquatic life of significant value managed prior to the drought declaration), prohibition on vehicle washing except at commercial car washes using recirculated water or high-pressure low-volume systems, and requirements to repair landscape irrigation leaks within 48 hours of city notification. At Level 4 (the most severe stage), all landscape irrigation is prohibited entirely, with exceptions only for crops and landscape products of commercial growers and nurseries. At Level 4, all detected irrigation leaks must be repaired within 24 hours of notification. Current restriction levels are communicated through the city website, local newspapers, and water bills. Reedley draws water from both surface and groundwater sources in the drought-prone San Joaquin Valley.