Winston-Salem Water Restrictions 2026
Forsyth ยท North Carolina
Published:
D2/D3 Extreme Drought - NCUC Stage 2 Restrictions
We have not independently verified this cityโs watering schedule. Rules change with drought stage and can be updated at short notice. Confirm your assigned watering days on the Local + State DMAC official page before watering. Following the wrong schedule can result in a municipal fine.
Verification needed
Check with utility
10:00 p.m. โ 4:00 a.m. on assigned days only
Allowed Hours
Verification needed
Check with utility
Check Your Watering Day With Winston-Salem
We have not verified Winston-Salemโs current watering schedule against an official source. Watering rules are set by your city and change with drought stage.
Confirm your assigned days on Winston-Salemโs official water page: Local + State DMAC.
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
๐ง Hand Watering
Allowed with shut-off nozzle. Hours: Any time.
๐ฟ 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.
๐ 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 countyโs 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
What days can I water my lawn in Winston-Salem?
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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