Renton, WA Landscaping Rules: Water Restrictions (2026)

Renton is served primarily by the City of Renton Water Utility and by Soos Creek Water and Sewer District in outer neighborhoods, with some Water District 90 service in the highlands. Renton sources much of its water from the Cedar River watershed via Seattle Public Utilities regional supply and local aquifers. Under RMC 8-4, the utility can impose mandatory water use restrictions during drought or emergency conditions declared by the Mayor or the Washington Department of Ecology under RCW 43.83B. Typical conservation stages are: Voluntary (water lawns only before 10 AM or after 7 PM, 2 days per week maximum), Mandatory (alternating odd/even watering days by address, no daytime watering, no car washing at home), and Emergency (watering prohibited except for food gardens and new plantings). No permanent outdoor watering ban is in place as of 2026, though voluntary summer conservation is encouraged from June through September. New landscapes under RMC 4-4-070 (Landscape Regulations) must include efficient irrigation with rain sensors and zones for different plant water needs. Homeowners are encouraged to install WaterSense controllers, use drip irrigation in shrub beds, and prioritize climate-adapted native plants.