Wichita Implements New Permanent Lawn Watering Restrictions

City aims to conserve water with every-other-day watering schedule

Mar. 28, 2026 at 11:05am

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An impressionistic, dreamlike photograph of a verdant lawn, with the details blurred into soft, glowing shapes and colors, conveying a sense of tranquility and natural beauty.Wichita's new permanent watering restrictions aim to maintain healthy lawns while promoting water conservation during potential future droughts.Wichita Today

Wichita has implemented new permanent water restrictions for lawn watering, replacing the previous once-a-week schedule. Under the new rules, residents with odd-numbered addresses can water on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays, while even-numbered addresses can water on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays. No watering is allowed on Mondays, and all watering must be done before 10 a.m. or after 6 p.m.

Why it matters

The city says the permanent restrictions are intended to help conserve water in the future, especially during potential droughts. While the new schedule may require some adjustment, experts say most lawns don't actually need daily watering and may even benefit from the every-other-day approach.

The details

The new restrictions apply to all Wichita Water customers, but do not affect those using well water or other non-potable sources. Vegetable gardens can still be hand-watered any day. Newly planted lawns and grasses can apply for a 30-day or 21-day exemption to allow for daily watering. Businesses that rely heavily on outdoor water use, like golf courses and nurseries, will be exempt from the restrictions.

  • The permanent watering restrictions went into effect on September 15, 2025.
  • Wichita's first lawn and garden season under the new rules is about to begin in spring 2026.

The players

Wichita Water

The municipal water utility that implemented the new permanent watering restrictions.

Abbey Draut

A horticultural agent for the Sedgwick County Extension Office who worked closely with the city on the permanent restrictions.

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What they’re saying

“In most cases, lawns don't require daily watering.”

— Abbey Draut, Horticultural Agent, Sedgwick County Extension Office

What’s next

The city said it is focused more on education than enforcement, but can issue warnings and fines to customers found in violation of the restrictions. Residents can report suspected violations through the City of Wichita app or by calling 316-942-4482.

The takeaway

Wichita's new permanent watering restrictions aim to promote water conservation, even as the city provides resources and exemptions to help residents and businesses adapt. The every-other-day schedule is designed to maintain healthy lawns without excessive water use, a balance that will be important as the region faces potential future droughts.