Pennsylvania Statewide Rule

Pennsylvania Drought Emergency Water Restrictions Statewide

Some RestrictionsApplies statewide across Pennsylvania (2026)

Key Facts

Authority: 35 Pa.C.S. Ch. 73
Trigger: Gubernatorial drought declaration
Lead Agency: PADEP / PEMA
Penalty: Up to $300 per violation

Last verified: September 5, 2026Source: Commonwealth of Pennsylvania

Summary

Pennsylvania Emergency Management Services Code authorizes the Governor to impose mandatory statewide drought water-use restrictions that override local rules during declared emergencies.

§ 119.4. Prohibition of nonessential water uses. Whenever the Governor declares by proclamation or executive order a state of drought or water shortage emergency in an area of this Commonwealth, the following water uses shall be deemed nonessential and are prohibited within areas that have been declared to be in a state of drought or water shortage emergency, including within any public water supply agencys service area for which a source of water is located within the designated drought emergency area. Nothing in paragraphs (1)(4) allows a prohibited use of water as either a direct or indirect effect of the exceptions contained therein.

Source: Commonwealth of PennsylvaniaView official code

Full Breakdown

Under 35 Pa.C.S. Ch. 73 (Emergency Management Services Code) and Act 9 of 2002, the Governor may declare drought emergencies and impose mandatory non-essential water-use restrictions, including bans on lawn watering, car washing, and ornamental fountain use. PADEP coordinates with the Drought Task Force. State emergency restrictions preempt local ordinances during declared emergencies.

Violations & Penalties

Violations during declared drought emergencies are summary offenses; fines up to $300 per violation, with utility-imposed surcharges and possible service suspension for repeat offenders.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who declares a drought emergency in Pennsylvania?

The Governor declares drought emergencies based on recommendations from the Commonwealth Drought Task Force, which monitors precipitation, stream flow, and groundwater across watersheds statewide.

Do drought rules apply to private wells?

Generally state mandatory restrictions target public water supply customers, but voluntary conservation is encouraged for private well users. Local rules may impose additional well-use limits.

Sources

PA Emergency Management Services Code

See something wrong?

Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.