Key Facts Full Breakdown Violations FAQ Sources

Billings, MT Water Use Rules: Lawn Watering Restrictions (2026)

Some Restrictions

Verified 1 week ago|Source: Billings Public Works →

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Key Facts

Source water: Yellowstone River
Preferred schedule: Odd-even by address
Avoid window: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Restriction trigger: Drought declaration

Summary

Billings Public Works asks residents to follow voluntary odd-even outdoor watering schedules during summer to manage demand on the Yellowstone River intake and treatment plant capacity.

Full Breakdown

Billings draws drinking water from the Yellowstone River and treats it at the city water plant on the South Side. Summer peak demand from lawn watering can push the system close to capacity, especially in the Heights pressure zones and West End. The utility encourages odd-even address day watering, watering before 10 a.m. or after 6 p.m., and avoiding sprinkler runoff onto streets. Mandatory restrictions can be activated by the city in drought years under the water conservation plan. Industrial and large turf customers receive separate guidance from utility staff.

Violations & Fines

Voluntary schedules carry no penalty. If the city declares mandatory restrictions, repeat watering violations can lead to written notices and graduated fines on the water bill.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are restrictions in effect right now?

Most years restrictions are voluntary. Check the Billings Public Works website each spring for any drought-driven mandatory schedule before setting your sprinkler timer.

Does this apply to drip irrigation?

Drip systems and hand watering of vegetable gardens are usually exempt from time-of-day restrictions because they apply water efficiently with little evaporation loss.

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Billings, MT Water Use Rules: Lawn Watering Restrictions (2026)

Key Facts

Summary

Full Breakdown

Violations & Fines

Frequently Asked Questions

Sources & Official References

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