Denver Water Bans Lawn Watering Oct. 1 Amid Severe Drought

Denver Water has amended its Stage 1 drought resolution, mandating an end to lawn watering on October 1. This decision by the Denver Board of Water Commissioners addresses the worsening drought conditions and record-high temperatures impacting the region's water supply. Customers are currently restricted to watering two days per week through September 30.

The ban aims to conserve water as storage levels are projected to be significantly below normal entering the spring. Despite earlier restrictions targeting a 20% reduction, prolonged heat has led to increased water usage for landscapes. Reservoir storage is at 72% capacity as of August 24, 2026, far below the historical median of 94% for this time of year.

While lawn watering ceases, limited watering of trees, shrubs, and perennials is permitted with hand-held hoses or low-volume systems. Annuals and vegetables may also be watered similarly until the first frost. High-traffic grass areas and new grass establishment will face stricter limitations. Recycled water users and those with approved variances may follow different rules.

Recent data highlights the severity of the drought. Watersheds are experiencing drought conditions, and streamflow into Denver Water's reservoirs from April to July was only 22% of normal, the lowest in 110 years. The Denver metro area has recorded its hottest year on record through July, with temperatures five degrees above normal and precipitation four inches below.