FAQs • Arapahoe County WWA, CO • CivicEngage

My irrigation clock can’t handle an “every 3rd day” irrigation schedule. What should I do?: Most irrigation clocks have the capability to handle an “every 3rd day” watering schedule. However, there are some older clocks that do not. As ACWWA develops its Water Conservation Program, it will take these capabilities into account.

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Lawn Watering Schedules - Stage 1

1. I don’t use ACWWA water for my irrigation needs, I have a well. Will the “Water Police” issue me a warning or fine?: ACWWA will not impose fines or penalties to those users who irrigate from their private well. ACWWA strongly encourages all water users to conserve water regardless of where the water originates from.

2. If there is no enforcement, why is ACWWA bothering with the schedule?: Here are some reasons for implementing the Lawn Watering Schedule:

1. The Lawn Watering Schedule will help regulate water use by our customers. During the irrigation season, outdoor watering dominates water usage. A lawn watering schedule will help smooth the demand patterns (when the water is used during the week). ACWWA considered imposing penalties / fines for non-compliance, but due to the economic conditions and other factors, ACWWA has currently decided against implementing these enforcement methods.

2. ACWWA wants its customers to understand that by following the schedule, they contribute to ACWWA’s system being run most efficiently. This will lead to better service and less upward pressure on rates in the future.

3. I’ve heard watering schedules don’t actually save any water, is this true?: Watering Schedules by themselves don’t necessarily save water, but they can play a part in water conservation. The purpose of their use for ACWWA customers is more for regulating water use.

If every customer watered on the same day at the same time, that would cause peaks in demand, which eventually would cause ACWWA to plan for and build higher capacity facilities to handle the demand. By using Watering Schedules, ACWWA can regulate, thus saving in potential construction / operation costs.

4. My irrigation clock can’t handle an “every 3rd day” irrigation schedule. What should I do?: Most irrigation clocks have the capability to handle an “every 3rd day” watering schedule. However, there are some older clocks that do not. As ACWWA develops its Water Conservation Program, it will take these capabilities into account.

5. My neighbor is watering in the middle of the day, is that against the rules?: Currently, there are no restrictions regarding time of use, however, this is being reviewed as part of our Water Conservation Program. Watering in the heat of the day is less efficient than in evenings or during the night, when temperatures are cooler and the winds have died down.

6. Will customers be assessed fines / penalties if they don’t follow the schedule?: ACWWA is currently under Stage One - Voluntary Watering Restrictions, for all areas and no fines are being assessed.