Can I report my Modesto neighbor for watering lawn on a wrong day? See new rules
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Nosy Neighbors in Modesto
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Modesto’s summer watering schedule just went into effect.
In response to conservation goals set in 2015 — which required cities to cut water use by 25% during statewide drought conditions — Modesto enforces a three-day outdoor watering schedule from April 1 through Oct. 31.
The schedule assigns specific watering days to help reduce overall demand on the Modesto sub-basin, according to city officials.
What happens if someone waters on the wrong day? Are there fines or penalties?
Here’s what to know about how Modesto enforces its watering rules:
When can I water my lawn in Modesto?
Modesto’s current outdoor watering rules will remain in effect through Saturday, Oct. 31, according to the city website.
Homes with odd-numbered addresses are allowed to water lawns, plants and landscaping on Wednesday, Friday and Sunday.
Even-numbered addresses can water on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday.
No watering is allowed on Monday.
Even on scheduled days, residents cannot water on any day between noon and 7 p.m., the city said.
“That’s because it is the warmest part of the day, and running sprinklers proves to be ineffective due to the water evaporating in the heat,” Nick Terpstra, utilities plant operator for the city of Modesto, previously told The Modesto Bee.
How many times a day can I water my lawn?
Residents are allowed to water twice a day “as long as there’s no runoff,” Terpstra said.
However, he said, using a short, staggered watering method will have the best results.
“If you’re able to, water for four to five minutes, then wait about an hour and water again for another four to five minutes,” Terpstra said. “This allows for better percolation into the root zone, which helps your plants and lawn.”
Can I report my Modesto neighbor for watering on the wrong day?
Modesto enforces its watering schedule through a mix of random patrols and resident reports, according to city officials.
“There is no set route or schedule,” Terpstra said. “City staff will randomly drive around town to check for violations.”
Enforcement isn’t limited to specific neighborhoods or times, meaning all residents are expected to follow the rules at all times.
The city will also follow up on resident reports to ensure everyone is abiding by city rules.
“We get about one call a day,” Terpstra said. “We document the report and follow up.”
Modesto residents can contact Modesto’s Code Enforcement Unit by leaving a voicemail at 209-577-5250.
You can also use the Go Modesto App to submit reports of violations to the city’s watering schedule, as well as other municipal violations.
“All submissions remain anonymous,” the city said.
What are the penalties for watering on the wrong day?
When it comes to enforcing watering rules, Modesto prioritizes education, according to city officials.
“If we get the chance to step out, hand someone a watering schedule and have a quick conversation about their watering habits, that’s always our preferred approach,” Terpstra said.
However, repeat violations can lead to fines.
If a resident continues to water on the wrong day, the city begins documenting each incident — including taking photos as evidence.
According to the city website, here are the penalties for violating Modesto’s water schedule:
- First violation: Warning notice mailed to the resident, including photos
- Second violation: $150 fine
- Third violation: $250 fine
- Additional violations: $500 per violation
Are there exceptions to Modesto’s watering schedule?
There are some exceptions to Modesto’s watering rules.
Residents served by outlying groundwater systems follow a separate two-day schedule.
In those areas, odd-numbered addresses can water on Wednesday and Sunday, while even-numbered addresses are assigned Tuesday and Saturday fpr irrigation.
No watering is allowed on Monday, Thursday and Friday.
According to the city, residents with drip irrigation systems can water at any time.
Hand-watering of trees and shrubs is also allowed at any time, as long as you use a hose with a positive shutoff nozzle.
Excessive runoff is not allowed under any circumstances.
Outdoor potted plants can be watered with a watering can be filled using an indoor tap any day, or with an outdoor hose during approved watering hours.
The city also allows a 90-day exemption for newly planted landscaping to help plants get established.
What questions do you have about living with neighbors?
Living with neighbors can be a challenge in Modesto.
Whether your questions are about reporting violations or understanding what’s allowed, The Bee is here to help you navigate neighborhood issues.
You can submit questions directly to our reporters by emailing The Bee’s Angela Rodriguez at arodriguez@modbee.com, writing to our service journalism desk at servicejournalists@modbee.com, or filling out the form below.
You may be contacted by a Modesto Bee reporter.
