Winston-Salem Water Restrictions 2026
Forsyth · North Carolina
Published:
Restrictions Active - D2/D3 Extreme Drought - NCUC Stage 2 Restrictions
2
Days/Week
10:00 p.m. – 4:00 a.m. on assigned days only
Allowed Hours
Per NCUC and Winston-Salem Water ordinance
Max Fine
Find Your Watering Day
Enter the last digit of your street address:
View full address schedule table
| Address Ending | Watering Day |
|---|---|
| Odd addresses | Tuesday & Thursday |
| Even addresses | Wednesday & Friday |
Allowed Watering Hours
Forsyth County under extreme drought. NCUC D2 restrictions apply. Winston-Salem Utility may issue additional local rules, check cityofws.org.
Still Allowed
💧 Hand Watering
Allowed with shut-off nozzle. Hours: Any time.
🌿 Drip Irrigation
Exempt from day-of-week limits. Must follow allowed hours.
Fines & Enforcement
Per NCUC and Winston-Salem Water ordinance
Legally enforceable water restrictions during drought stages.
Citations begin March 31, 2026🏠 HOA Rules During Restrictions
HOA lawn standards cannot override drought water restrictions.
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 Local + State DMAC'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
Forsyth County is in extreme drought as of March 31, 2026. The Piedmont Triad, Winston-Salem, Greensboro, High Point, has recorded its driest winter on record. Streams throughout the Yadkin River basin are at critically low levels.
This deficit has accumulated over the current water year and represents a significant departure from historical averages for the Winston-Salem area. Water supply reservoirs and aquifer levels are well below seasonal targets, necessitating mandatory conservation measures.
How to Keep Your Lawn Alive During Winston-Salem Water Restrictions
4 tips tailored for Winston-Salem homeowners during D2/D3 Extreme Drought - NCUC Stage 2 Restrictions restrictions.
Overnight-only watering under Stage 2, set timer for 11pm
Check ncdrought.org weekly on Thursdays
Tall Fescue thrives on deep infrequent watering, current restrictions align well with grass needs
Hand watering always allowed, prioritize trees over lawn
Winston-Salem Water Restriction FAQs
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What hours can I run my sprinklers in Winston-Salem?
What are the fines for water violations in Winston-Salem?
Can I install new sod or seed in Winston-Salem during restrictions?
When will water restrictions end in Winston-Salem?
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