What Colorado’s Water Restrictions Mean for You and Your Clients

Denver Water’s message is a simple one: “Use only what you need.” That message hit homes on conservation, as well as responsible homeownership in general.

March 25, 2026

UPDATE: April 14, 2026
Colorado’s water outlook has shifted quickly and your clients are likely starting to feel the impact. Following a historically dry winter and record-low snowpack across key river basins, much of the Front Range is now operating under Stage 1 drought conditions or preparing for stricter measures.

Here’s what’s new and important:

Mandatory watering restrictions are already in place (or imminent)
In the Denver metro area, outdoor watering is now generally limited to two days per week, with no watering allowed during the heat of the day (10 AM - 6 PM).
Stricter enforcement, and potential escalation, is on the table
Local water providers are signaling that additional restrictions could be implemented later this year if conservation goals aren’t met.
Drought pricing is being introduced
For the first time in decades, Denver Water is adding temporary surcharges tied to higher outdoor water use to encourage conservation.
Low snowpack is driving everything
Snowpack levels in Denver Water’s collection areas are among the lowest on record, which directly impacts water supply heading into spring and summer.
Rules around rainwater collection and usage still apply
Homeowners are still limited to two rain barrels (110 gallons total), and enforcement may increase as drought conditions worsen.

We’ll continue to monitor updates as conditions evolve. But for now, conservation is the name of the game across Colorado.

As we head into yet another hot, dry season, water conservation is certainly top of everyone's minds. As of March 25, 2026, Denver Water officially implemented Stage 1 drought restrictions across its service area, with neighboring communities like Thornton, Erie, Arvada, Littleton and Lakewood following suit. And Denver Water’s message is a simple one: “Use only what you need.” That message hit homes on conservation, as well as responsible homeownership in general.

For DMAR Realtors®, this is more than just a seasonal update. This is crucial information that can (and will) impact your clients’ homes, routines and even buying and selling decisions.

What We’re Seeing Now
Water conservation is already underway across the Denver metro area. Denver International Airport and local businesses, including car washes, have begun implementing water-saving measures, reinforcing how widespread and important these efforts are.

What Homeowners Need to Know
Under the Stage 1 restrictions, outdoor watering is now limited:

Lawn watering is only allowed before 10:00 AM or after 6:00 PM
Watering is limited to two days per week, based on the following schedule:
- Even-numbered addresses: Sunday and Thursday
- Odd-numbered addresses: Wednesday and Saturday
- Multifamily and commercial properties: Tuesday and Friday

Additionally, Denver Water recommends keeping automatic sprinkler systems turned off until mid-to-late May (or later). There’s also a broader ask to reduce total water usage by at least 20%.

Enforcement & Penalties
Current and prospective homeowners should understand that these restrictions are enforceable. The first violation will result in a warning. After that there is a $250 fine for the second violation and a $500 fine for the third.

What This Means for the Real Estate Market
Water restrictions may seem minor, but they can influence your buyers and sellers. For example, when it comes to curb appeal, brown lawns or limited landscaping may become more common, and perhaps more accepted. When touring homes this summer, buyers may ask about irrigation systems, water-efficient upgrades or xeriscaping. When working with sellers to get their homes list-ready, drought-tolerant landscaping and water-saving features could become selling points.

With all of this in mind, this is an opportunity to help position your listings and guide buyers with our current environment in mind.

How You Can Support Your Clients
As a trusted guide for your clients, you can help them stay informed and avoid unnecessary fines by: