Kentucky Water Restrictions Law: Statewide Landscaping Rules Rules (2026)

Key Facts

Statute: KRS Chapter 151 and 224
Plan authority: Division of Water
Utility regulator: Public Service Commission
Enforcement: Utility civil penalties

Full Breakdown

The Kentucky Energy and Environment Cabinet's Division of Water administers the Kentucky Drought Mitigation and Response Plan under KRS Chapter 151 and KRS 224.10. Public water systems must develop water shortage response plans approved by the Division and may impose mandatory outdoor watering restrictions when drought conditions trigger response stages. Investor-owned utilities operate under Kentucky Public Service Commission oversight and tariff filings governing emergency restrictions. Local water utilities directly enforce conservation rules including watering day schedules, irrigation bans, and surcharges. Local restrictions during drought derive from this state framework rather than independent municipal authority over water use.

Violations & Penalties

Civil penalties typically range from $50 to $500 per violation; water utilities may suspend service for repeated noncompliance with mandatory restrictions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who declares drought restrictions in Kentucky?

Public water systems declare local water shortage stages under plans approved by the Kentucky Division of Water. The state monitors conditions through the Kentucky Drought Mitigation and Response Plan.

Can I be fined for watering during a drought?

Yes. When a water utility imposes mandatory restrictions, violations such as watering on prohibited days carry civil penalties or service suspension under utility tariffs and ordinances.

Kentucky Drought Water Restriction Statewide Framework