Missoula Water Restrictions 2026
Missoula County · Montana
Published:
Restrictions Active - Stage 1 Conservation Advisory - 2026 Drought Monitoring
3
Days/Week
Before 10:00 AM
Allowed Hours
No fines at Stage 1; $100 if Stage 2 declared
Max Fine
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| Address Ending | Watering Day |
|---|---|
| Odd (voluntary) | Monday & Wednesday & Friday |
| Even (voluntary) | Tuesday & Thursday & Saturday |
Allowed Watering Hours
Voluntary odd/even guidance during active Stage 1. No mid-day irrigation recommended between 10:00 AM and 5:00 PM.
Still Allowed
💧 Hand Watering
Allowed with shut-off nozzle. Hours: Any day with a shut-off nozzle.
🌿 Drip Irrigation
Exempt from day-of-week limits. Must follow allowed hours.
Fines & Enforcement
No fines at Stage 1; $100 if Stage 2 declared
Stage 1 Advisory is voluntary; enforcement begins at Stage 2 with $100 first-offense citations. Contact Missoula Water for current status.
Citations begin April 2026🏠 HOA Rules During Restrictions
HOAs in Montana cannot enforce lawn appearance standards that would require homeowners to violate active municipal water advisories. Document compliance if your HOA sends a violation notice.
If your homeowners association sends a violation notice for a dormant or brown lawn during the current restriction period, respond in writing citing the applicable law and include a copy of the Missoula Water's current restriction order. Most HOAs will rescind the notice once they are made aware of the legal protections in place. If the issue persists, contact your county’s code enforcement division for assistance.
Why These Restrictions Exist
Missoula is monitored for drought conditions as of April 2026. Missoula Water serves area residents and coordinates with state drought agencies. Contact Missoula Water at https://www.ci.missoula.mt.us/water for current stage status and restriction details.
This deficit has accumulated over the current water year and represents a significant departure from historical averages for the Missoula area. Water supply reservoirs and aquifer levels are well below seasonal targets, necessitating mandatory conservation measures.
How to Keep Your Lawn Alive During Missoula Water Restrictions
11 tips tailored for Missoula homeowners during Stage 1 Conservation Advisory - 2026 Drought Monitoring restrictions.
Kentucky Bluegrass and tall fescue dominate Missoula lawns.
Mow to 3.5 inches and leave clippings.
Smart controller rebates available through Missoula Water.
Replace parkway strips with region-appropriate natives.
Drip-irrigate vegetable beds and fruit trees.
Fix leaks within 48 hours.
Convert overhead spray to rotary nozzles, saves 30%.
Skip cycles after any 0.25 inch or greater rainfall.
Harvest rainwater where state law permits.
Group plants by hydrozone.
Track monthly use at www.ci.missoula.mt.us/water.
Missoula Water Restriction FAQs
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