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New Landscape Variance Request

Suggested Watering Schedule for New Turf

Athletic Field Variance Request

Large Landscape Variance Request

Those who install new landscapes during declared drought stages may apply for a variance to the one-day-per-week watering rules. If approved, your request may allow daily watering for up to three weeks following installation. All water consumption charges incurred through the exercise of this variance are the responsibility of the account holder.

Beautification landscape projects do not qualify for a variance. Aesthic and large-scale landscape projects should be undertaken when drought periods are over.  Replacing or adding plants or turf to existing, established landscapes is highly discouraged and generally will not be granted a variance unless extenuating circumstances exist. Over-seeding existing turf is not considered new landscape and will not be given an exemption.

To request a variance, the new landscape must meet all requirements under Chapter 34 of the City Code. These requirements include: 4 inches of soil under all turfgrass areas; the irrigation system (if present) must be a zoned system; no irrigation spray heads in areas less than 5 feet; irrigation spray heads must be 4 inches away from impervious surfaces; rain sensors must be installed on irrigation systems and turf grass must be capable of summer dormancy. (See SAWS approved list of turfgrasses.) If the property requesting the variance is found to be noncompliant with any of the above requirements, the variance will be revoked immediately.

Unless a variance is requested and granted, watering new plantings with a sprinkler or irrigation system outside of assigned days and times will be considered water waste and subject to citation. Watering with a soaker hose or drip irrigation is always allowed any time.

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