Oklahoma City Utilities is reminding residents that the city’s odd/even outdoor watering schedule is in effect year-round, as continued heat and dry conditions put additional pressure on the city’s water supply.
Under the ordinance, addresses ending in an odd number – 1, 3, 5, 7 or 9 – may use outdoor sprinklers on odd-numbered calendar days. Addresses ending in an even number – 0, 2, 4, 6 or 8 – may water on even-numbered days.
The restrictions apply to sprinkler use but not hand watering of gardens or flower beds.
The city adopted the odd/even system following significant droughts in 2010 and 2013. It is the first stage of Oklahoma City’s five-stage Progressive Water Conservation Program, designed to reduce demand on the water treatment and distribution system and limit overwatering.
Recent drought conditions have reduced the amount of water naturally flowing into Oklahoma City’s supply lakes, while prolonged heat increases evaporation. City officials say the water supply remains in good position but are asking residents to conserve during the summer.
“We have a reliable water supply and a resilient system, but we can’t take it for granted,” Utilities Director Chris Browning said. “Simple choices about when and how much we water can make a meaningful difference in overall demand, particularly during periods of extreme heat.”
Utilities officials recommend watering in the early morning to reduce evaporation, checking sprinkler heads for leaks or misdirection, repairing broken equipment and avoiding watering streets and sidewalks.
Residents can also reduce water use by adding mulch to flower and vegetable gardens, using drip irrigation and choosing drought- and heat-tolerant plants.