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

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: