Tyler Residents Asked to Limit Outdoor Watering as East Texas Faces Dry Spring

City officials recommend a voluntary watering schedule to maintain water pressure amid drought conditions.

Mar. 30, 2026 at 10:34pm

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A sweeping, atmospheric landscape painting depicting a vast, cracked and parched earth under a hazy, oppressive sky, conveying the overwhelming power of nature and the melancholy of drought conditions.As drought conditions persist in East Texas, Tyler's voluntary water restrictions aim to promote sustainable usage and avoid potential shortages.Tyler Today

With East Texas experiencing a dry start to spring 2026, the City of Tyler is asking residents to voluntarily limit outdoor watering to just two days per week. Tyler Water Utilities director Kate Dietz says the goal is to help people form good water conservation habits before the summer heat arrives and to maintain consistent water pressure across the city.

Why it matters

The dry conditions in Tyler and surrounding counties have led to burn bans in some areas, and the city is proactively trying to avoid potential water shortages later in the summer by encouraging residents to follow a voluntary watering schedule.

The details

Tyler has received only 5.81 inches of rain so far this year, compared to the average of 10.79 inches through March. The city is asking residents with even-numbered addresses to water on Sundays and Thursdays, and those with odd-numbered addresses to water on Saturdays and Wednesdays, before 10 a.m. or after 6 p.m. to reduce evaporation. Residents are also advised to check their sprinkler systems for any issues and avoid overwatering, which can damage lawns.

  • So far in 2026, Tyler has received 5.81 inches of rain, compared to the average of 10.79 inches through March.
  • The voluntary watering restrictions are in effect now and will continue through the summer months.

The players

Kate Dietz

The director of Tyler Water Utilities, who is encouraging residents to adopt water conservation habits.

Tyler Texas Weather

The local weather service that has reported on the dry conditions in the East Texas region.

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What they’re saying

“We want to help people form good habits around outdoor watering before the temperatures spike in the summer months. Participating in efficient watering practices not only helps your lawn but also helps us maintain consistent water pressure across the city.”

— Kate Dietz, Director, Tyler Water Utilities

What’s next

The city will continue to monitor the drought conditions and may implement mandatory water restrictions if the dry weather persists.

The takeaway

By proactively encouraging residents to limit outdoor watering, Tyler is taking steps to conserve its water resources and avoid potential shortages during the hot summer months. This voluntary program aims to promote sustainable water usage habits among the community.