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1. Why has Sugar Land initiated Stage 1 Drought?

The City's Drought Contingency Plan Stages are triggered when there is a drought proclamation, total daily water demand exceeds specified thresholds, or when water supplies or treatment capacity become reduced. On August 22, Governor Abbott issued a declaration of drought disaster for Fort Bend County. With the proclamation of drought and increased water demand primarily attributed to outdoor water irrigation, the City has initiated Stage 1 Drought. 

2. Are watering restrictions mandatory?

No, watering restrictions are not mandatory in Stage 1 Drought. However, all residents and customers are highly encouraged to reduce landscape irrigation with an irrigation system or hose-end sprinkler to two days a week and reduce water used for non-essential and aesthetic water needs.

3. I don't have an irrigation system or a hose-end sprinkler. Am I allowed to hand-water my landscaping?

Irrigation of landscaped areas and structure foundations is permitted at any time by means of a hand-held hose with a positive shut-off nozzle, a faucet filled bucket or water can of five gallons or less, or drip irrigation system. 

4. What is a Drought Contingency Plan?

The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) requires public water suppliers and wholesale water suppliers to adopt Drought Contingency Plans that lay out responses should a water shortage or water production and delivery emergency impact the ability to deliver drinking water. 

5. How long will the City be in Stage 1?

There is currently no timeframe for how long the City will remain in Stage 1 Drought. The City will remain in Stage 1 until all triggering conditions have ceased to exist. 

6. When do watering restrictions become mandatory?

Watering restrictions become mandatory in Stage 2, which calls for mandatory twice a week watering.