Watering Restrictions
As a distributor of Denver Water, Willows Water District is obligated to follow Denver's Operating Rules. Effective March 25, 2026, Denver Water has declared a Stage 1 Drought and implemented watering restrictions. Customers are asked not to turn on sprinkler systems until mid to late May to help conserve water supplies. This summer, customers in single-family residential properties may water no more than two days per week and must follow a set schedule:
- Addresses ending in even numbers: Sunday and Thursday.
- Addresses ending in odd numbers: Wednesday and Saturday.
All other customers, including multifamily properties, commercial properties, homeowners associations and government properties, may water only on Tuesdays and Fridays.
In addition,
- Water only during cooler times of the day, between 6 p.m. and 10 a.m.
- Do not allow water to pool in gutters, streets and alleys.
- Do not waste water by letting it spray on concrete and asphalt.
- Repair leaking sprinkler systems within 10 days.
- Do not irrigate while it is raining or during high winds.
- Use a hose nozzle with a shut-off valve when washing your car.
As of April 8, 2026, Denver Water will increase the rate it charges Willows Water District starting June 1st. This rate increase will include May water consumption .
Denver Water Stage 1 Drought Declaration News Article
To report water waste, call 303-770-8625.
For a more detailed description of watering guidelines (water waste definitions, etc.) click here.
New seed, sod, and planting projects are eligible for a temporary exemption from the two-day-per-week watering restrictions during the 21-day establishment period. However, all other watering regulations and applicable rates, including drought pricing, remain in effect.
To Apply for a Watering Exemption
Please email the following information to customerservice@willowswater.org:
- Scheduled project start date
- Photos of the installation area or project site
- Service address
After Installation
To receive your watering exemption, please submit a photo of the completed installation on the day the sod, seed, or planting project is installed. The exemption will be issued upon verification of the installation.
The 21-day exemption period begins on the date the exemption is issued, not the date the application was submitted. This process ensures that all customers receive the full 21-day establishment period for newly installed sod, seed, or plant material. It also prevents situations where installation occurs earlier or later than anticipated, which could result in the exemption beginning before the project is completed or expiring before the full establishment period has been utilized.
For questions or to apply, please contact:

