Water Conservation Efforts in Dallas

August 8, 2025 — As the weather heats up this summer, the demand for water is rising along with the temperatures. Dallas Water Utilities (DWU) delivers on average nearly 400 million gallons of water every day, with daily summer usage climbing above 600 million gallons, placing additional strain on water resources and system infrastructure.

The Impact of Increased Water Consumption

When water consumption increases, the pipelines feel it—and that can lead to more water main breaks and leaks. To stay ahead, DWU has eight crews working around the clock to respond quickly. While pipeline repairs are happening, some customers may experience brief service interruptions. DWU crews notify impacted customers through individual notices left on the doors of residential and business properties (notices are not delivered after 9 p.m.).

Conserving Water: A Collective Effort

DWU is asking residents and businesses to conserve water and help reduce water demands by:

• Adhering to the City of Dallas Water Conservation Ordinance that prohibits watering with hose-end sprinklers or automatic sprinklers systems between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. from April 1 to October 31

• Ensuring sprinkler systems have no leaks or malfunctioning heads, and preventing water runoff onto sidewalks, driveways and streets

• Reporting any unusual water flows from private or public property by calling the City of Dallas 3-1-1 information line

Emergency Water Main Leaks: What to Do

For emergency water main leaks, call 3-1-1 immediately. Crews will be dispatched promptly to assess and prioritize repairs.

Investing in Water Infrastructure

DWU takes a multi-faceted approach to protect Dallas’ water system and invests between $140 and $160 million annually to replace and upgrade water and wastewater mains. Thanks to these efforts, water main repairs per 100 miles have dropped from 37 in FY 2011-12 to 19 in FY 2023-24.

Conclusion

In conclusion, conserving water is a collective effort that requires the participation of residents, businesses, and the city. By adhering to the water conservation ordinance, ensuring sprinkler systems are working properly, and reporting unusual water flows, we can all do our part to reduce water demands and protect Dallas’ water system. Remember, every gallon counts, and together we can make a difference.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about water conservation in Dallas:

Q: What is the City of Dallas Water Conservation Ordinance?

A: The ordinance prohibits watering with hose-end sprinklers or automatic sprinklers systems between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. from April 1 to October 31.

Q: How can I report unusual water flows?

A: You can report unusual water flows by calling the City of Dallas 3-1-1 information line.

Q: What should I do in case of an emergency water main leak?

A: Call 3-1-1 immediately, and crews will be dispatched promptly to assess and prioritize repairs.

Q: How much does DWU invest in water infrastructure annually?

A: DWU invests between $140 and $160 million annually to replace and upgrade water and wastewater mains.