OKC and Metro Cities Implement Mandatory Odd/Even Watering

(August 1, 2012) - City officials have implemented a mandatory odd/even watering program in Oklahoma City, effective immediately.

The rotation program includes residents and businesses and remains in effect until further notice. Citizens whose address numbers end in even numbers may water yards on even- numbered days. Likewise, citizens whose house numbers end in an odd number may water on odd-numbered days.

For example: If the house number of the address is 12345, then you would water on odd- numbered days, August 1, 3, 5, 7 and so on. If the house number of your address is 12346, then you would water on even number days, August 2, 4, 6, 8 and so on.

Extreme temperatures cause an extreme demand for water, which lowers water pressure for some residents and businesses. While some residents are using a lot of water on yards, others at the end of the water system may barely have enough water pressure to take a bath.

Watering yards every other day will reduce the daily demand and maintain water pressure for everyone. The rotation program applies to yard sprinklers and sprinkler irrigation systems. Hand watering potted plants, flower beds, gardens and trees is allowed.

Cities that use Oklahoma City water are also required to comply with the outdoor watering restriction.

Some homes and businesses continue to experience low water pressure during this period of extreme temperatures. It’s almost unavoidable when everyone waters their yards or landscaping at the same time.

Residents and businesses are encouraged to follow these practices on their watering day:
Water between 11 p.m. and 4 a.m. when water use is lower and less water is lost to evaporation.
Let the Bermuda grass turn brown. It’s dormant, not dead, and it will come back.
Concentrate watering efforts on sensitive plants, trees and shrubs. Watering the flower beds and landscaping close to the house will also water the foundation.
Reset sprinkler system frequencies to water in the late evening or early morning and for less time.

Contact: Debbie Ragan
297-3363 / 301-3839
debbie.ragan@okc.gov