On Friday, May 1, the Town of Dillon implemented mandatory outdoor water restrictions
We are entering the summer months of 2026 in a severe drought, after below average precipitation over the winter, record breaking high temperatures in March, and the lowest snowpack ever recorded as of April. All of this has a major impact on the health and reliability of our water supply. Water is a critical resource for the town of Dillon, not only providing great recreational opportunities like sailing and fishing, but also for drinking, cooking, sanitation, and firefighting.
On April 28, 2026 Dillon Town Council approved Resolution No. 19-26, Series of 2026. Effective May 1, the Town of Dillon is implementing mandatory outdoor water restrictions. The following restrictions on outdoor water use shall remain in effect until rescinded by the Town Council.
Restricted Watering Schedule: Two Days a Week:
Zone 1 - Last whole number in address is even - watering on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6 p.m. to 9 a.m. (overnight).
Zone 2 - Last whole number in address is odd - watering on Wednesdays and Fridays from 6 p.m. to 9 a.m. (overnight).
Additional Outdoor Use Restrictions
The washing of sidewalks, driveways, or patios is prohibited except when necessary to remove spills, bird/animal droppings, or other substances that pose a health, safety, or sanitation hazard. Washing of vehicles is permitted only with a bucket or hose/pressure washer with automatic shutoff nozzle, or in a commercial carwash facility.
Exclusions
The supplemental watering of flowers, ornamental plants, trees, and gardens is permitted daily, without hour restrictions, provided such application is performed via drip irrigation or manual hand-watering. All manual watering devices, including hoses and pressure washers, must be equipped with a functional, leak-free automatic shut-off nozzle.
The operation of irrigation systems for testing, auditing, or performing necessary repairs. Such operation must be attended at all times and shall not exceed the duration reasonably necessary to complete the maintenance task.
Use by emergency services in response to, or related to, an emergency. Provided that the Town Manager determines that there is available water, high traffic publicly owned lawn areas, specifically the multi-use playing field of Town Park and the Dillon Amphitheater lawn, shall be permitted without restriction for the safety of athletic activities and spectators. In addition, exempting outdoor use for decontamination of boats, and allowing the town manager to issue a permit for dust control at construction sites.
The Town Manager or their designee may issue a temporary exclusion allowing for daily watering of new seed, sod, or nursery stock for a period not to exceed 30 days from the date of installation.
Additional Restrictions on Outdoor Use
If the flow in Straight Creek falls below 2.0 Cubic Feet per Second (CFS), or the Town of Dillon Public Works reasonably anticipates the flow to fall below 2.0 CFS, the Town Manager may further restrict outdoor use of water, up to and including a prohibition on all outdoor use (except emergency response uses), with immediate effect and without further publication in the newspaper, until the flow in Straight Creek has increased above 2.0 CFS for 72 hours.
Water at Restaurants
As we prepare for the busy summer season, the Town of Dillon is encouraging our local restaurants to take a simple but meaningful step in support of water conservation. With mandatory water restrictions in place, one effective practice is to ask patrons if they would like water served with their meal, rather than providing it automatically.
This small change can significantly reduce unnecessary water use while still maintaining excellent customer service. By being mindful of when water is truly needed, we can collectively help preserve this vital resource during peak demand months.
Together, these thoughtful efforts will help ensure that Dillon’s water supply remains sustainable and plentiful for residents, businesses, and visitors alike throughout the summer.
Penalties and Enforcement
Penalties for violations will follow those outlined in Section 13-2-210 of the Dillon Municipal Code with a phased rollout. During the month of May, the Town will prioritize public education and outreach. Violations observed during this period will result in a written warning only, and shall serve as a “first violation”. Subsequent infractions occurring on or after June 1, 2026, will be subject to the standard fine schedule as outlined in Town Code.
Notwithstanding the June 1 start date for fines, should the average flow of Straight Creek fall below 4.0 cubic feet per second (approximately 30 gallons per second) over any ten-day period, the Town reserves the right to terminate the grace period and begin immediate assessment of fines to protect the municipal water supply.
