With finite water resources and a growing population, El Paso began an aggressive water conservation program in 1991. The City Council adopted the Water Conservation Ordinance in that year that makes wasting water a violation.
The plumbing code was also changed to require the installation of low-flow models for all new indoor plumbing fixtures, including shower heads, faucet aerators and toilets.
Here are highlights of Water Conservation Ordinance. To see the full ordinance, click link below:
Follow a Landscape Watering Schedule
Landscaped areas can be watered up to three times a week throughout the year based on even/odd addresses. Water flowing into the streets is prohibited. Time of day restrictions are seasonal. Details:
- No residential watering on Mondays
- EVEN numbered addresses are allowed to water Tuesdays, Thursdays, or Saturdays.
- ODD numbered addresses are allowed to water Wednesdays, Fridays, or Sundays.
- Schools, parks, cemeteries, golf courses and industrial sites are allowed to water Mondays, Wednesdays, or Fridays.
- Times Restrictions: From April 1 through September 30, outdoor watering is only permitted before 10:00 a.m. or after 6:00 p.m. on designated EVEN or ODD days.
Wasting Water = Violations, Citations
Violations to the ordinance can result in a Class C misdemeanor citation. Fines can range from $50 to $500 per citation.The following uses of water are defined as wasting water and are prohibited:
- Landscape watering on the wrong day and/or wrong time
- Allowing water to flow into public right of way or storm water drainage system.
- Failure to repair a leak within five working days of the discovery of the same.
- Washing down impervious surfaces, except in emergencies to remove spills of hazardous materials or eliminate dangerous conditions.
Residential Car Washing
- Residential car washing is only allowed if a bucket and/or a hand-held hose equipped with a positive shut-off nozzle is used.
- During a water emergency or during Stage 3 drought restrictions, washing of vehicles will only be permitted at commercial establishments equipped with treatment and recycling systems and approved by the El Paso Water.
- Fundraising car washing events can only be held at commercial car wash establishments.
Permits and variances may be available under certain conditions.