FAQs • Chowchilla, CA • CivicEngage

Why are there watering regulations?: State-wide drought conditions have persisted for years and even with the occasional above-average rainfall season, water conservation has become a necessity. Conserving water also helps alleviate low water pressure and helps reduce electrical energy usage which is beneficial for our environment. In order to assist in the preservation of water, a precious resource, the City of Chowchilla has designated specific watering days and times. Click HERE to go to the Public Works Water Service page.

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Water Conservation

1. Why are there watering regulations?: State-wide drought conditions have persisted for years and even with the occasional above-average rainfall season, water conservation has become a necessity. Conserving water also helps alleviate low water pressure and helps reduce electrical energy usage which is beneficial for our environment. In order to assist in the preservation of water, a precious resource, the City of Chowchilla has designated specific watering days and times. Click HERE to go to the Public Works Water Service page.

2. My address ends in a 1/2, what are my watering days?: You would use the very last number before the 1/2 in your address. For example, a resident with an address of 1309-1/2 may water on the days for odd numbered addresses and an address of 1308-1/2 may water on the days for even numbered addresses. Click HERE to go to the Public Works Water Service page.

3. Are there certain hours I am allowed to water?: Yes. For the current water schedule Click HERE to go to the Public Works Water Service page.

4. Do I have to use sprinklers or can I leave my garden hose running?: Using an open flowing hose to irrigate landscape, trees, flowers, lawns, gardens, etc. is prohibited and property residents must attach and use a shutoff nozzle. Click HERE to go to the Public Works Water Service page.

5. When am I allowed to wash my car?: You may wash your vehicle on any of your designated watering days during the allowed watering times as long as you use a restricting nozzle on your hose. Click HERE to go to the Public Works Water Service page.

6. Why do I sometimes see watering on non-watering days or beyond specified hours?: This rarely is allowed but occasionally new landscaping, sod, or ground cover is planted that requires more frequent watering or special circumstances occur that require alternate watering times. When this occurs, a special water use permit is obtained from the City. Click HERE to go to the Public Works Water Service page.

7. Can I get a special use permit to water on my off days?: It depends. You should contact the Public Works Department at (559) 665-8615, ext. 789 for the most up-to-date information. Click HERE to go to the Public Works Water Service page.

8. Who do I contact to report violators?: It is best to Email Public Works to report a watering violation so that the City has a record of the report. Click HERE to go to the Public Works Water Service page.

9. I received a violation warning notice do I have to pay a fee?: First offense violators will receive a warning notice by mail that does not include any violation fee. Click HERE to go to the Public Works Water Service page.

10. What are the violation fees after a warning is given?: After a first offense warning, there are fines and subsequent penalties that increase with repeat offenses. For specifics contact the Public Works Department at (559) 665-8615, ext. 789. Click HERE to go to the Public Works Water Service page.

11. Do I need a permit to drain my swimming pool?: You must first obtain a permit prior to draining any swimming pool at any time during the year. Contact the Public Works Department at (559) 665-8615, ext. 789 for information. Click HERE to go to the Public Works Water Service page.