Denver Water Restrictions 2026: Why ColoradoScaping is the Answer

If you own a home in the Denver metro area, you've likely heard the news: the 2026 water crisis is here. With the South Platte River Basin snowpack hitting historic lows, Denver Water has implemented mandatory Stage 1 drought restrictions. This is a critical moment for our community, and it requires a collective effort to conserve our most precious resource. The restrictions are designed to ensure that we have enough water to meet our essential needs, but they also present a significant challenge for homeowners who want to maintain a beautiful outdoor space.

Watering Schedule Restrictions

Understanding Stage 1 Mandatory Restrictions

The Stage 1 restrictions are comprehensive and strictly enforced. They are not merely suggestions; they are mandatory rules that all residents must follow. The goal is to achieve a 20% reduction in overall water usage, which is essential for preserving our water supply during this severe drought.

• 2 Days Per Week Maximum: You may only water your lawn two days a week.

• Odd-Numbered Addresses: Wednesday and Saturday only.

• Even-Numbered Addresses: Thursday and Sunday only.

• Time Restrictions: Absolutely no watering between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m.

The Financial Impact: New Drought Surcharges

Beyond the watering schedule, the financial cost of maintaining a thirsty lawn is rising. Effective May 2026, Denver Water has implemented drought surcharges for outdoor watering. These surcharges are designed to discourage excessive water use and to reflect the true cost of providing water during a drought. For homeowners with large, traditional lawns, these surcharges can add up quickly, making it increasingly expensive to keep the grass green.

Water Bill Surcharge

The Solution: ColoradoScaping

You don't have to watch your lawn turn brown. The solution is converting your high-water-use turf into a water-wise landscape—a process Denver Water now calls "ColoradoScaping" (formerly known as xeriscaping). ColoradoScaping is not about creating a barren wasteland; it's about designing a landscape that is perfectly adapted to our local climate. By using native plants, efficient irrigation systems, and smart design principles, you can create a stunning outdoor space that requires a fraction of the water used by a traditional lawn.

"Grade A Excavation is one if not the best company I have had the pleasure to work with! Hugh and his team went above and beyond to help us out..." — Sophia A., Denver, CO

Grade A's Commitment to Denver Homeowners

At Grade A Excavation & Landscape, we've been serving Denver homeowners for over 20 years. We believe that everyone should have access to a beautiful, sustainable landscape, and we are committed to making that a reality for our clients by providing expert ColoradoScaping and zeroscaping services.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What are the specific watering days for my address?

Under Stage 1 restrictions, odd-numbered addresses can water on Wednesdays and Saturdays, while even-numbered addresses can water on Thursdays and Sundays.

How much are the new drought surcharges?

The surcharges vary based on usage tiers, but they are designed to significantly increase the cost of high-volume outdoor watering.

Will ColoradoScaping really save me money?

Yes, by reducing your outdoor water use by 50-75%, you can avoid the new drought surcharges and significantly lower your monthly water bill.

Grade A Excavation & Landscape

Protecting Denver Metro Homes for Over 20 Years

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