Colorado has experienced below-average precipitation since 2020, leaving our water supplies below normal levels. A Stage I drought has been declared, so watering is only allowed two days a week and is prohibited between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. Here are some answers to common questions about drought:
What does Stage I mean?
Aurora’s Water Management Plan outlines several drought stages and, based on water supply and forecasts, it outlines various steps that should be taken to reduce water usage. By proactively implementing progressive restrictions, we can hopefully avoid more drastic measures.
Normal is in effect when our water supply is sufficient to meet 30 months or more of anticipated demands. Watering is limited to no more than three days per week, with no water permitted between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. from May 1 to Sept. 30.
How will water customers be notified of drought stages?
Aurora Water will notify customers by mail of the drought stage change and will provide information on any watering restrictions that might be in place. Updates will also be provided on our website, Aurora’s Water social media channels (Twitter @AuroraWaterCO, Facebook @AuroraWater and NextDoor.com), the city’s News Aurora newsletter that accompanies the water bill and This is Aurora email newsletter. Customers can call 303.739.7195 for additional information.
Since we’re in a drought, should I just stop watering our turf?
Now would be a great time to replace some of your common areas with a water-wise landscape, but you don't need to stop watering if you have functional, healthy turf. Adhere to the requirements of the current drought stage. We recommend working with your landscaper to follow the guidance on our watering times page. During the hottest summer months, your grass can go dormant (but it's not dead.) Check out this article on dormancy.
Consider our Grass Replacement Incentive Program, and let us help you turn that thirsty grass into a beautiful water-wise landscape. You can receive a rebate by switching over to a water-wise landscape. Make sure to read through the GRIP manual for HOA/Large properties.
How can we keep better track of our water use?
Keeping track of water use and comparing water use over time is basic information that properties need. Aurora Water bills can be sent to multiple contacts in paper or electronic form. Contact our Billing department at 303.739.7388 to double-check who is receiving your bills.
Large properties are eligible for a program called the Watering Variance Program, which reports actual water use compared to recommended use to up to three contacts and exempts participating properties from day-per-week watering restrictions. For Drought Stage 1, participants are asked to reduce their outdoor water use by 20%.
Finally, we are in the middle of upgrading our standard meters to smart meters. These smart meters transmit readings hourly instead of monthly, so we will have more data to help customers understand their water use. Customers can also access this data through EyeOnWater, a free website and app that can set leak alerts. Sign up for EyeOnWater with your Aurora Water account number. If you need additional help setting up your EyeOnWater account, call Billing at 303.739.7388.
What is the surcharge on my bill?
Yes, though if you delay installation until the weather is cooler, your landscape will be healthier. Hot and dry conditions are the worst time to establish new plant material. In order to install new sod, seed or an automatic sprinkler system, you must obtain a Lawn and Irrigation Permit. Call 303.739.7351 for additional information.
How do I report a watering violation?
You can call our Water Conservation Hotline at 303.739.7195 or file a report online using the Access Aurora app or at aurorawater.org.
How is the water wasting ordinance enforced?
Most properties want to do their part to conserve and, in most cases, are not intentionally wasting water. Providing information and alerting to a possible water-wasting issue is far more effective and is always our first step. Aurora Water staff patrol the city to identify and witness water wasting. We also receive messages from community members that we investigate and verify before considering enforcement actions. Aurora Water will issue penalties for water-wasting violations if needed. Multifamily, commercial and irrigation accounts are penalized $500 for the first violation. Subsequent violations increase.
What else can I do to conserve water, and can I get help?
Water Conservation offers a host of free programs to help you reduce water usage. Our indoor water assessments can help you detect leaks, monitor your water usage, and check if your showerheads and faucets are high-efficiency models. We also provide outdoor water assessments to help check your automated sprinkler system. Visit the Commercial, HOA and Large Property Rebates and Resources webpage to learn more about our programs.