Daytime outdoor watering restrictions went into effect May 1 and will run through the end of September. The restrictions are enacted each year as part of Lewisville’s Emergency Water Management Plan, according to the release.
"Improper irrigation, especially during the heat of the day, leads to tremendous water waste from evaporation and runoff," Public Services Director Aaron Russell said in the statement. "Following wise-watering practices and adhering to the scheduled times is crucial for conserving our water resources."
National Weather Service data shows heat index values up to 110 degrees Fahrenheit for Dallas-Fort Worth the week of June 23 and issued heat advisory warnings through the evening of June 26.
The details
Automated and manual sprinklers are not allowed between the hours of 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. during the summer months. Watering by hand and use of soaker hoses are not restricted.
Residents with even-numbered addresses can water lawns on Tuesdays and Saturdays only, and odd-numbered addresses are permitted on Wednesdays and Sundays. Commercial, multifamily and homeowners association properties are assigned Mondays and Thursdays.
"Watering when temperatures are highest results in as much as 30% of that water being instantly lost to evaporation," Russell said. "Shifting irrigation to the cooler early morning and evening hours maximizes efficiency."
Zooming in
Watering by hand with a hose or soaker hose is allowed as these methods greatly reduce waste compared to sprinklers, according to the release. The city recommends residents check irrigation controllers to ensure proper programming aligns with the designated schedule.
"An established, [a] healthy lawn only needs about an inch of water per week from either rainfall or irrigation," Russell said in a statement. "Any more than that, you're just wasting our precious water supplies."
The city encourages smart irrigation practices, such as sizing spray heads for head-to-head coverage, inspecting for leaks and over-spray onto the pavement, raising mower heights, and aerating the soil to improve water penetration.
Lewisville also provides rebates for installing water-efficient equipment. Details can be found here.
