Our commitment to water conservation
The City of Santa Ana is committed to protecting our water resources and promoting long-term sustainability. As a signatory of the California Urban Water Conservation Council, we have taken meaningful steps to reduce water use across the community. Highlights of our ongoing efforts include:
Educating residents on water-wise habits and offering special programs that engage the community in sustainable landscaping.
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Hosting free workshops on California-friendly landscaping.
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Providing rebates for high-efficiency appliances, water-saving devices, and turf replacement through our partnership with the Metropolitan Water District—helping residents save both water and money.
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Using approximately 66 gallons of water per person per day—among the lowest in Orange County, where the average is around 109 gallons. (Source: Santa Ana 2020 Urban Water Management Plan and MWDOC 2020 UWMP)
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Installing weather-based irrigation systems that use soil moisture sensors to water only when needed.
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Delivering reclaimed water to commercial and industrial users for irrigation and other non-potable uses.
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Equipping City departments with water-saving fixtures and practices.
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Collaborating with the Municipal Water District of Orange County and the Metropolitan Water District of Southern California on a wide range of conservation initiatives.
Permanent water conservation requirements
All water users
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Outdoor water is restricted to evenings between the hours of 6 p.m. and 8 a.m. |
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Leaks must be repaired within 72 hours of notification by the City |
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No washing down sidewalks or driveways with a hose |
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No excessive water flow or runoff that causes water to flow onto an adjoining sidewalk, driveway, street, alley, gutter or ditch |
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No washing vehicles with a hose unless the hose is fitted with a shut-off nozzle |
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No operating a fountain or decorative water feature unless the water is part of a recirculating system |
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No outdoor watering during and 48 hours following measurable rainfall |
* Commercial nurseries and golf courses are exempt.
Business
[Including owners of industrial, institutional and commercial properties]
- Restaurants, cafes and bars can only serve water to customers on request
- Hotels and motels must prominently display a notice providing guests with the option of choosing not to have towels and linens laundered daily
- No outdoor watering of non-functional or decorative turf at commercial, industrial and institutional sites. Outdoor watering to ensure the health of trees and other perennial non-turf plants is permitted.
Want more information about water conservation?
Visit our resources page where you will find links to everything from sustainable landscapes and California Friendly® plants, to water saving calculators and resources for kids.- Download our indoor and outdoor tip sheets.
- Learn about rebates and incentives for high efficiency appliances.
- Check out these additional resources: