Outdoor water restrictions expanded

June 18, 2020 — Water and Sewer

Miami-Dade County has precious water supply that must be protected and preserved. Water conservation is vital to the preservation of South Florida's ecosystems.

Water restrictions

In Miami-Dade County, water restrictions are observed year-round. Due to current dry conditions, residents can only water their lawns twice a week before 7 a.m. and after 7 p.m., 365 days a year. 

So, when *can* I water my lawn?

You may water your lawn two days a week. The same rules apply to residences and businesses.

• ODD-numbered home address (those that end in 1, 3, 5, 7, 9) are permitted on Wednesdays and Saturdays, before 7 a.m. and after 7 p.m.
• EVEN-numbered addresses (those ending in 0, 2, 4, 6, 8) are allowed on Thursdays and Sundays, before 7 a.m. and after 7 p.m.

Choose one of the two “watering windows” — either morning or evening. It is not necessary to water your lawn twice a day – it’s wasteful and can be detrimental to your landscape.

Irrigation Evaluations & Rebates

You can improve and beautify your home’s yard while reducing water use. Ask for a FREE landscape irrigation evaluation, available to single-family homeowners and large properties (such as condo associations and commercial properties) with a functioning, in-ground irrigation system.

The Miami-Dade Water and Sewer Department’s Landscape Irrigation Rebate Program provides financial incentives to upgrade irrigation systems and improve water efficiency. These efforts will reduce the amount of water used and create healthier landscapes.

Single-family homeowners are eligible for maximum rebates of $500 a year, up to five years. Large property owners are eligible for maximum rebates of $2,850 per property. A smart controller can also be provided, free of charge.

To receive the free evaluation, the property must have a working in-ground irrigation system, including pump, irrigation lines and spray heads. The assessment provides guidance to property owners on appropriate, cost-effective retrofits to their landscape and irrigation system and rebates are available for completing the recommendations.

To qualify for the rebate, proof of payment must be provided within six months of the evaluation or by Aug. 31, whichever comes first. Receipts and invoices must be itemized, showing the cost for labor and individual parts purchased, and show payment in full. A post-retrofit evaluation must be scheduled.