The 2025–26 water year began with historically low snowpack, and severe drought persists across the state. Snowpack — which Denver Water depends on for its water supply — remains among the worst on record in its two primary watersheds: 55% of normal in the Colorado River Basin, the worst on record, and 42% of normal in the South Platte River Basin, the worst on record.

 

Given these conditions, the Denver Board of Water Commissioners today declared a Stage 1 drought, which includes mandatory limits on outdoor watering. While these restrictions are in place, customers in single-family residential properties may water no more than two days per week and must follow a set schedule.

 

While the declaration is effective immediately, there is no need to turn on automatic systems until at least mid- to late-May. Although conditions are hot and dry, and many landscapes look like they need a little TLC, please stick to a hose or bucket to give your beloved trees the water they need and keep your automatic sprinkler systems off! It is not necessary to water grass two days a week in April and the beginning of May, and holding off on automatic irrigation will help save water.

 

In addition, the utility is preparing to put in place temporary drought charges that place a premium on outdoor water use, along with increased enforcement of watering restrictions. These steps will help preserve water levels in their reservoirs and reduce the likelihood of additional restrictions later this summer.

 

Denver Water provides many resources to help customers use water wisely and increase efficiency, including a DIY landscape guide and climate-appropriate landscaping ideas, as well as rebates for turfgrass removal and high-efficiency toilets.

 

More details about Denver Water’s drought response are available here, and up-to-date information on reservoir levels, customer use and snowpack can be found in the Water Watch Report and this weekly water update on TAP  (in English and Spanish).