San Marcos, CA Landscaping Rules: Water Restrictions (2026)

The City of San Marcos is served primarily by the Vallecitos Water District (VWD), which implements water conservation requirements consistent with state mandates. Under California's permanent water waste prohibitions (Water Code Section 10608.48), residents may not water landscapes in a way that causes runoff onto adjacent property, sidewalks, or streets. Watering is prohibited during and within 48 hours of measurable rainfall. Outdoor watering with potable water is generally limited to before 10:00 AM and after 6:00 PM to reduce evaporation losses. During declared drought emergencies, additional restrictions may apply including limits on watering days per week. VWD offers tiered water pricing that increases rates for usage exceeding baseline allocations, providing a financial incentive for conservation. The district also offers rebates for turf removal, smart irrigation controllers, and high-efficiency appliances. San Marcos properties are subject to the state Model Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance (MWELO) for new construction and significant landscape renovations, requiring efficient irrigation design, appropriate plant selection, and maximum allowable water budgets. VWD customer service can be reached at (760) 744-0460.