Water Restrictions

The City of Cortez passed Ordinance No. 1013, on April 27, 2004, establishing water restrictions to reduce water usage in the area and avoid water shortages due to drought conditions in dry years. Watering restrictions are enforced between May 15th and September 15th each year. During this time, watering of yards is not allowed between the hours of 10:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m.  Water restrictions are updated frequently in the latest water restriction resolution.

Anyone violating this ordinance will be given a warning upon observation of the first offense. Upon a second observed offense, the property where this violation is in effect will have the water shut off and a re-connect fee will be required to restore service.

If you are installing a new lawn that needs to be watered every day during the restricted time of 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., you can obtain a New Lawn Permit from the Public Works Department, located at the City Service Center, 110 West Progress Circle. The fee for this permit is $25. The permit will be valid for 21 days for newly-seeded lawns and 15 days for sod.

The City recommends using alternative grass types such as fescues, wheat grasses, and Blue Grama rather than Kentucky Bluegrass. They require less water and are easier to maintain. Your local garden center can give you more information on the best grass for your property.

If you would like to report a watering violation, please contact the Utility Billing Department at 970-564-4012.