Santa Clara County, CA Landscaping Rules: Water Restrictions (2026)

Unincorporated Santa Clara County does not set its own day-of-week watering schedule through the land-use code; outdoor water use is governed by the Santa Clara Valley Water District (Valley Water), the countywide wholesale water agency, and by California state law, with retail water providers enforcing at the customer level. Under Valley Water's water-use rules, customers generally may not irrigate outdoor landscape between 9:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m., may not apply water during or within 48 hours of measurable rainfall, and may not water in a manner that causes runoff. Watering of non-functional turf at commercial, industrial, and institutional properties (including HOA common areas and multi-family common areas) has been restricted. During declared drought emergencies the District has recommended limiting lawn and ornamental watering with potable water to no more than two days per week. Exceptions exist for applying water directly under the canopy of trees and shrubs and for immediate health, safety, sanitation, or fire-protection needs. Enforcement is handled by Valley Water and the retail water suppliers, with the District noting violation fines that can range from roughly $100 up to $10,000 after warnings. Layered on top, the state's AB 1572 phases in a ban on using potable water to irrigate non-functional turf at public, commercial, and HOA common-area properties. Because actual rules change with drought conditions, residents should confirm current requirements with their water retailer.