Boston Water and Sewer Commission imposes outdoor watering limits during MWRA-declared drought conditions, typically odd/even address day schedules and prohibitions on midday irrigation.
Boston gets its drinking water from the Massachusetts Water Resources Authority's Quabbin and Wachusett reservoirs. During MWRA or state-declared drought stages, BWSC implements outdoor water use restrictions covering lawn irrigation, vehicle washing, and decorative fountain operation. Typical Stage 2 measures restrict irrigation to before 9am or after 5pm on alternating days based on address parity, and prohibit non-essential exterior washing. Soaker hoses and drip irrigation may receive exemptions. BWSC water bills include conservation messaging, and the Drought Management Task Force coordinates regional response. Grass-replacement and rain-barrel rebates may be available during sustained drought conditions.
BWSC may issue warnings, then fines from $50-$500 per offense, and ultimately install water-flow restrictors for repeat outdoor water-use violations during declared drought stages.
Other ordinances people look up for this city. Green dot = verified primary-source excerpt.
Boston, MA
Boston has no general ordinance restricting lawn ornaments, statues, or yard decorations on private residential property. Decorations must stay within proper...
Boston, MA
Boston has no specific ordinance regulating inflatable holiday displays on private residential property. Inflatables must not encroach on sidewalks, block pu...
Boston, MA
Boston does not have a dedicated ordinance regulating holiday lighting on private residential property. General nuisance, electrical safety, and historic dis...
Boston, MA
Permanent outdoor kitchens in Boston require Inspectional Services Department permits when they include gas, plumbing, electrical, or structural work. Built-...
Boston, MA
Boston treats smokers and solid-fuel grills (wood, pellet, charcoal) the same as charcoal grills under Massachusetts Fire Code 527 CMR 1.00. Use on balconies...
Boston, MA
Boston's Fire Prevention Code (527 CMR 1.00, Massachusetts Comprehensive Fire Safety Code) prohibits the use or storage of LP-gas grills and propane cylinder...
See how Boston's lawn watering restrictions rules stack up against other locations.
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.