Milwaukee Water Works draws from Lake Michigan and does not impose drought-based watering bans, but the utility limits irrigation during peak demand events and prohibits wasteful runoff onto sidewalks and streets.
Because Milwaukee sources drinking water from Lake Michigan and does not face the chronic drought stress of western utilities, MWW does not run a fixed odd-even watering calendar. Customers must avoid runoff onto streets, sidewalks, and gutters, which can trigger nuisance citations under Code Chapter 90. During rare emergencies declared by the MWW Superintendent, voluntary or mandatory restrictions can be imposed. Rain sensors are encouraged for in-ground systems. The Wisconsin DNR sets withdrawal thresholds under the Great Lakes Compact for high-capacity wells, but residential lawn watering is not metered separately.
Persistent runoff or non-compliance with declared emergency restrictions can lead to nuisance abatement notices, fees on the water bill, and in extreme cases shutoff of irrigation service.
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See how Milwaukee's lawn watering restrictions rules stack up against other locations.
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