In Colorado, May 1st is commonly seen as the time when warmer weather arrives, prompting homeowners, property managers, and landscapers to turn on their irrigation systems to water their plants. However, this date also marks the beginning of irrigation and watering regulations in communities like Denver, Aurora, and Parker, which are established by Denver Water. Vista Landscape Development has ample experience installing irrigation systems and watering landscapes in Denver and is familiar with these restrictions. This article provides helpful tips and information on how to maximize your water usage outdoors while maintaining a healthy landscape.
Denver Water Summer Watering Guidelines
Denver Water has established guidelines for homeowners and property managers to adhere to when caring for their landscapes. The following are Denver Water's Summer Watering Rules for water conservation:
- Water your landscapes during cooler times of the day; no lawn watering between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m.
- Water no more than three days per week.
- Prevent water from pooling in gutters, streets, and alleys.
- Avoid wasting water by letting it spray on concrete and asphalt.
- Repair any faulty sprinkler or irrigation systems within 10 days.
- Refrain from irrigating while it is raining or during high winds.
- Use a hose nozzle with a shut-off valve when washing your car.
How long you should water per your irrigation system
The length and duration of watering vary depending on the style of the watering system, whether it is an older landscape with fixed spray heads or manual sprinklers or a newer one with high-efficiency watering systems. For most landscapes during the summer, watering twice a week should be sufficient, with a third day allowed in case of extreme heat or dryness, according to Denver Water.
Screenshot of Denver Water's website for water times during Summer.
Newly installed Seed and Sod Watering Instructions
Customers of Denver Water are allowed to water newly planted seeds or sod as needed for up to 21 days. After that time period, the new turf becomes subject to outdoor watering regulations.
To qualify for a watering exemption, the newly landscaped area must be at least 250 square feet in size. Running an irrigation system on an area smaller than that is considered wasteful, and hand watering is recommended for smaller areas. Keep in mind that watering during the initial 21-day period may result in an increase in water usage.
Vista Landscape Development suggests that homeowners and property managers submit a watering exemption request during the landscaping construction phase. Clients can complete the form and contact Denver Water for any general inquiries about the process.
For any landscaping design or development project in the greater Denver Metro area, Vista Landscape Development is available to provide its experience and expertise. Contact them for a consultation or to have any questions answered without any hassle.