Do you know when to water in Wichita? We can answer that, other questions
AI-generated summary reviewed by our newsroom.
- Wichita adopts permanent water limits starting Sept. 15, allowing watering every other day based on address.
- Hand watering, wells & non-potable sources remain exempt; new lawns may request variances.
- City expands rebate programs and focuses on education, with fines for ongoing violations.
Beginning Sept. 15, Wichita will move to every-other-day watering restrictions.
These restrictions, meant to be permanent, will replace the once-a-week watering schedule that had been in effect since August 2024, when the area was in a severe drought.
We asked Eagle readers what they wanted to know about the new restrictions. Here are the most commonly asked questions and answers.
Why does Wichita have new watering restrictions?
The city says the new, permanent restrictions are intended to help conserve water in the future, especially for potential droughts.
What are Wichita’s permanent watering restrictions?
The new restrictions allow people who live at addresses ending in odd numbers to water their lawns Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays, while those with even addresses can water Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays. No watering is allowed on Mondays. Watering is only allowed before 10 a.m. or after 6 p.m.
Do Wichita’s watering restrictions apply to people who use wells?
These restrictions do not apply to those who use well water or other other forms of non-potable water on their lawns.
Are vegetable gardens subject to Wichita’s permanent watering restrictions?
No, you can hand water vegetable gardens any day.
Can I hand water my yard on non-watering days?
All hand watering is exempt from the restrictions.
Will Wichita’s water restrictions negatively affect my lawn?
In most cases, lawns don’t require daily watering, according to Abbey Draut, a horticultural agent for Sedgwick County Extension Office who worked closely with the city on the permanent restrictions.
In fact, she said, some lawns will benefit from every-other-day watering. The only exceptions are newly planted lawns and grasses.
What if I am putting in a new lawn in Wichita?
The new restrictions will allow up to 30 days of daily watering for reseeding and 21 days of daily watering for sod, as well as exceptions for other special circumstances.
To water a new lawn daily, Wichita Water customers must apply for an exemption by filling out the variance request form available on the city’s website.
How do Wichita’s new watering restrictions apply to businesses?
The city said all businesses that are exempt from the current Stage 2 restrictions — including those that “generate their core economic activity from usage of outdoor water” — will be exempt from the new permanent restrictions.
That includes golf courses, car washes, nurseries, landscaping companies and sod suppliers.
How will Wichita’s watering restrictions be enforced?
The city said it’s still focused more on education rather than enforcing water restrictions. However, it can look at a water customer’s usage to determine if there is a violation. Residents can report suspected violations on the City of Wichita app or by calling 316-942-4482.
A warning letter will be sent first to users who are found in violation of the restrictions. If users continue to be found in violation, fines will be issued. A first time offense is a $50 penalty and each additional violation is $100.
How many people have been fined since water restrictions started last year?
The city sent 535 warning letters to residents in 2024, Public Works Director Gary Janzen said during a recent city council meeting. Only 16 were issued violations with a total of $800 in fines. So far this year, 197 warning letters have been sent. Six violations have been issued with a total of $300 collected in fines.
When can I fill my pool in Wichita?
Residents can fill their pool at any time, according to the city.
What rebates is Wichita offering for water customers?
The city will expand its rebate program to include drought-resistant seeds. It already offers rebates for rain barrels, rain sensor shutoffs, toilet repair kits and more. Residents can apply to file for a rebate on the city’s website.
It will also provide resources on how to convert lawns to native or drought-resistant plants, as well as educational resources on lawn care maintenance to prevent overwatering.
Do HOA rules about lawn maintenance apply during this time?
The city’s restrictions supersede any home owners association requirements, according to the city.
What are some tips to help conserve water?
Here are some tips from the Environmental Protection Agency and the city’s website:
- Fix leaks as soon as possible
- Turn off tap when not actively using
- Shower instead of using the bath
- Plug sinks while washing dishes
- Wash only full loads of laundry and use correct water setting
- Water less often and deeply
- Mow higher
- Use your grass clippings as mulch
This story was originally published September 14, 2025 at 3:55 AM.