Tyler Residents Asked to Limit Outdoor Watering as Dry Spring Continues

Voluntary water conservation measures aim to maintain consistent water pressure amid below-average rainfall.

Mar. 31, 2026 at 4:03pm

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A sweeping, atmospheric landscape painting depicting a small farmhouse or water tower in the distance, dwarfed by an expansive, hazy horizon under a dramatic, backlit sky, conveying the overwhelming scale of the natural environment during a period of drought.As a prolonged dry spell grips East Texas, the City of Tyler appeals to residents to conserve water and adopt more efficient outdoor watering practices.Tyler Today

Due to drier-than-normal conditions in East Texas this spring, the City of Tyler is asking residents to voluntarily limit outdoor watering to just two days per week. The city is recommending even-numbered addresses water on Sundays and Thursdays, while odd-numbered addresses water on Saturdays and Wednesdays, in an effort to conserve water and maintain consistent pressure in the municipal water system.

Why it matters

Tyler has received about 5.8 inches of rain so far this year, which is nearly 5 inches below the average of 10.8 inches through March. The dry conditions have led to burn bans in surrounding counties, and the city wants to get ahead of potential water shortages by encouraging residents to adopt more efficient watering practices before the hot summer months arrive.

The details

The city's water utilities director, Kate Dietz, says the voluntary watering schedule will help "people form good habits around outdoor watering before the temperatures spike in the summer months." Residents are advised to water before 10 a.m. or after 6 p.m. to reduce evaporation, and to check their sprinkler systems for any misalignment or damage. Overwatering can lead to shallow roots and increased runoff, so the city recommends mowing grass slightly higher to retain moisture.

  • So far in 2026, Tyler has received 5.81 inches of rain, compared to the average of 10.79 inches through March.
  • The voluntary water conservation measures went into effect in late March 2026.

The players

Kate Dietz

The director of Tyler Water Utilities, who is encouraging residents to adopt more efficient outdoor watering practices.

Tyler Texas Weather

The local weather reporting service that has noted the drier-than-normal 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, Water Utilities Director

What’s next

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

The takeaway

By voluntarily limiting outdoor watering now, Tyler residents can help the city maintain consistent water pressure and avoid potential shortages later in the year, demonstrating how proactive conservation efforts can benefit the entire community.