Madison Water Restrictions 2026
Dane County · Wisconsin
Published:
Restrictions Active - Stage 1 Conservation Advisory - Voluntary
3
Days/Week
Before 10:00 AM
Allowed Hours
No fines at Stage 1
Max Fine
Find Your Watering Day
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| Address Ending | Watering Day |
|---|---|
| Voluntary odd/even | Morning or evening |
Allowed Watering Hours
Voluntary odd/even guidance.
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
No fines at Stage 1
Stage 1 is voluntary, no current fines. Stage 2 would implement mandatory odd/even with $100 citations.
Citations begin April 2026🏠 HOA Rules During Restrictions
Wisconsin HOA law requires acceptance of municipal declarations at Stage 2+.
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 Madison Water Utility'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
Madison Water Utility draws from 23 groundwater wells tapping the Mt. Simon sandstone aquifer. Aquifer levels at 88% of normal. Dane County D0 abnormally dry.
This deficit has accumulated over the current water year and represents a significant departure from historical averages for the Madison area. Water supply reservoirs and aquifer levels are well below seasonal targets, necessitating mandatory conservation measures.
How to Keep Your Lawn Alive During Madison Water Restrictions
11 tips tailored for Madison homeowners during Stage 1 Conservation Advisory - Voluntary restrictions.
Kentucky Bluegrass dominates Madison lawns.
Mow to 3.5 inches.
Madison Water smart controller rebates cover $40.
Replace parkway strips with Wisconsin natives.
Drip-irrigate vegetable beds.
Fix leaks within 48 hours.
Convert overhead spray to rotary nozzles.
Skip cycles after any 0.25"+ rainfall.
Harvest rainwater.
Group plants by hydrozone.
Track monthly use at cityofmadison.com.
Madison Water Restriction FAQs
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What are the fines for water violations in Madison?
Can I install new sod or seed in Madison during restrictions?
When will water restrictions end in Madison?
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