Water conservation
SAWS drought stages can restrict when and how much you water outdoors
The San Antonio Water System triggers watering restrictions tied to Edwards Aquifer levels, and the current stage can change your outdoor irrigation schedule significantly.
SAWS uses a staged drought restriction system that activates based on the level of the Edwards Aquifer at a monitored index well. As the aquifer drops, SAWS moves through Stages 1 through 5, each progressively limiting outdoor watering. Stages are measured by a 10-day rolling average at the J-17 index well: Stage 1 triggers at 660 feet, Stage 2 at 650 feet, and Stage 3 at 640 feet.
At Stage 3, landscape irrigation with a sprinkler or soaker hose is allowed only once a week. Your allowed watering day is based on the last digit of your address. Drip irrigation and tree bubblers have slightly more flexibility. Fines start at $137 for a first violation.
Always check the current stage before watering. Drought stages can change with rainfall. Visit saws.org/conservation/drought-restrictions/ for the current stage, your designated watering day, and all the rules for that stage. The Edwards Aquifer Authority also issues separate CPM stage reductions for large permit holders, tracked at edwardsaquifer.org.
Source to confirm: SAWS – Drought Restrictions and Watering Rules