How to report neighbors or businesses violating Raleigh’s water restriction rules
AI-generated summary reviewed by our newsroom.
- Odd-numbered addresses may water only on Tuesdays; even-numbered only on Wednesdays.
- Sprinklers allowed 6–10 a.m. or 6–10 p.m.; handheld allowed any time on your watering day.
- First violation is a letter, second $100 fine, third $500 and water may be shut off.
Due to a statewide drought, water at area lakes that provide water to Raleigh and surrounding communities are at low enough levels to prompt Stage 1 drought restrictions for those who get their water through Raleigh.
The water restrictions place limits on when residents or businesses can water their lawns or gardens:
- People with odd-numbered addresses may only water their lawns on Tuesdays.
- People with even-numbered addresses may only water their lawns on Wednesdays.
- Watering impervious surfaces, like streets, driveways or other paved surfaces is prohibited.
- Handheld hose watering and drip irrigation are allowed at any time.
- Sprinklers can only be used between 6-10 a.m. or 6-10 p.m.
When do Raleigh’s water restrictions start?
Raleigh Water’s restrictions begin on Monday, April 20.
What is allowed during drought restrictions?
Filling up pools, irrigating athletic fields, pressure washing and car washing are all allowed under the stage 1 restriction, according to the city.
What do you do if you see someone breaking the rules?
To report a violation, call Raleigh Water at 919-996-3245 or email customercare@raleighnc.gov.
The first violation is a letter, the second is a $100 fine and the third is a $500 fine. If the violations are not resolved, the city may stop water service.
You can find more details in the city’s Water Shortage Response Plan on the city’s website, raleighnc.gov.
Which Triangle towns have water restrictions?
The water restrictions apply to all Raleigh water customers in the following towns:
- Raleigh
- Garner
- Knightdale
- Rolesville
- Wake Forest
- Wendell
- Zebulon
Portions of this story were previously published in The News & Observer.
This story was originally published April 17, 2026 at 10:27 AM.
