Frequently Asked Questions

Drought and the Statewide Outdoor Water Use Schedule

1. If the drought is over, why do I have to follow an outdoor water use schedule?

Georgians proved that water conservation during the drought saved a significant amount

of water. Water conservation is important during times of drought as well as non-drought, and results in environmental and economic benefits. The schedules offer a

reasonable opportunity to use water wisely by reducing the overuse of water in the

landscape. To learn more about water conservation around the landscape and in the

home and business, go to www.conservewatergeorgia.net.

2. The current statewide non-drought

outdoor water use schedule is:

 Odd numbered addresses are allowed to use water outdoors on Tuesdays,

Thursdays and Sundays

·

Even numbered and unnumbered addresses are allowed to use water outdoors on

Mondays, Wednesdays and Saturdays

· NO WATERING ON FRIDAY

· The outdoor water use schedule applies to customers (households and businesses)

who receive water from an entity (public and private) with a water withdrawal permit

or a permit to operate a drinking water system.

· Water use may occur at any time of the day on the assigned days, however landscape

watering is discouraged between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. because of its limited

effectiveness.

It is important that you contact your local water provider to find out if the local outdoor

water use schedule is different than the state schedule.

3. The following outdoor water usages are allowed on any day and are not subject to the odd/even schedule.

(a) Capture and reuse

of cooling system condensate or storm water in compliance with

applicable local ordinances.

(b) Reuse of gray water in compliance with applicable local ordinances.

(c) Use of reclaimed wastewater by a designated user from a system permitted by EPD to provide reclaimed wastewater (Golf Courses).

(d) Irrigation of personal food gardens.

(e) Outdoor water fountains.

(f) Water may be used to wash hard surfaces, such as streets, gutters, sidewalks, driveways, school buses, fire trucks, emergency vehicles and police cars ONLY when necessary for public health and safety.