5 Critical Updates To The Fresno County Water Schedule And Mandatory Rules For 2025
Staying compliant with water usage rules in Fresno County is more complex than a single schedule, as regulations vary significantly across different water districts and the City of Fresno itself. As of December 22, 2025, residents and agricultural users must navigate a mix of mandatory residential watering schedules, critical irrigation district delivery timelines, and new, strict groundwater management regulations that carry significant penalties for non-compliance. This comprehensive guide breaks down the most current and essential water schedules and rules you must follow for the 2025-2026 water year.
The overall water management landscape in the Central Valley continues to be shaped by long-term drought conditions and the Sustainable Groundwater Management Act (SGMA), leading to stricter oversight and new mandatory deadlines for well owners. Understanding your specific district's calendar is crucial for both landscape health and avoiding fines for violating the Fresno County Water Conservation Ordinance.
The Mandatory City of Fresno Outdoor Watering Schedule (Residential)
The City of Fresno operates on a mandatory, year-round outdoor water use schedule that changes based on the season to promote water conservation. These rules apply to all residential and commercial properties within the city limits and are enforced strictly to ensure compliance with local and state water mandates.
Summer Outdoor Water Use Schedule (April 1 – October 31)
During the warmer months, the City of Fresno utilizes a three-day-per-week watering schedule. This schedule is based on the last digit of your street address (Odd/Even).
- Addresses Ending in ODD Numbers (1, 3, 5, 7, 9): Watering is permitted on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays.
- Addresses Ending in EVEN Numbers (0, 2, 4, 6, 8): Watering is permitted on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays.
- Prohibited Times: Watering is NEVER allowed between 10:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. on any day to minimize water loss from evaporation.
- No Watering Day: Mondays are designated as a non-watering day for all addresses.
Winter Outdoor Water Use Schedule (November 1 – March 31)
The winter schedule significantly reduces watering frequency to account for cooler temperatures and potential rainfall. This schedule is designed to promote water conservation during the dormant season.
- Addresses Ending in ODD Numbers (1, 3, 5, 7, 9): Watering is permitted on Saturdays only.
- Addresses Ending in EVEN Numbers (0, 2, 4, 6, 8): Watering is permitted on Tuesdays only.
- Prohibited Days: No watering is allowed on Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, or Sunday during the winter schedule.
Mandatory Rain Rule: A critical year-round restriction applies to all residents: No watering is allowed for 48 hours after measurable rainfall. This rule is strictly enforced in the City of Fresno and Clovis to prevent unnecessary runoff.
Key 2025 Irrigation District Schedules and Agricultural Water Deliveries
For agricultural users and residents outside of the City of Fresno who rely on surface water from irrigation districts, the schedule is based on water availability and district announcements. These districts manage vast networks of canals and pipelines, and their schedules dictate the flow of non-potable surface water for crops and landscape irrigation.
Consolidated Irrigation District (CID) 2025 Schedule
The CID is one of the largest entities providing surface water in the region. The 2025 schedule for CID customers is highly anticipated by the agricultural sector.
- 2025 Water Delivery Start Date: CID water deliveries are officially scheduled to begin on Monday, April 28, 2025.
- Expected Run Duration: The 2025 water run is expected to continue through the month of July, providing approximately 90 days of surface water irrigation to customers using the CID Gravity system.
- Scheduling: Customers must contact the district for specific scheduling of water delivery to their canals or gates.
Fresno Irrigation District (FID) Updates
The FID manages water for a significant portion of the Fresno area, focusing on both irrigation and groundwater recharge projects, such as the Southwest Groundwater Banking project.
- Delivery Season: FID typically operates on a season-by-season basis, with water deliveries nearing the end of the season in the fall. Customers should monitor FID announcements for the official 2026 season start date, which is dependent on snowpack and reservoir levels.
- Groundwater Recharge: FID continues to focus on recharge efforts, which are a long-term strategy for water sustainability in the county.
Mandatory Groundwater Rules: The North Kings GSA Well Registration Deadline
One of the most significant and newest mandatory rules affecting thousands of property owners in Fresno County is the requirement to register private wells under the Sustainable Groundwater Management Act (SGMA). This regulation is overseen by local Groundwater Sustainability Agencies (GSAs), such as the North Kings GSA.
The North Kings Groundwater Sustainability Agency (GSA) has set a firm deadline for well registration:
- Final Deadline: All wells within the North Kings GSA boundaries must be registered by November 30, 2025.
- Late Penalty: A mandatory $100 late registration penalty fee per well will be assessed for any wells not registered by the deadline. The penalty period begins on May 1, 2025.
- Who is Affected: This mandatory registration applies to all well owners, including domestic, agricultural, and commercial wells. The information collected is vital for the GSA’s groundwater management and sustainability plan.
Property owners in areas served by other entities, such as the Prather Water District or Bakman Water Co., should confirm their specific GSA and check for similar mandatory registration deadlines to avoid penalties.
Fresno County Water Conservation Tips and Rebates for Homeowners
Adhering to the schedule is just the first step; true compliance and cost savings come from implementing effective water conservation strategies. The City of Fresno and the Fresno County Water and Natural Resources Division offer various resources and incentives to help residents reduce their water footprint.
Topical Conservation Strategies for 2025:
- Install Drip Irrigation: Switching from traditional sprinklers to drip irrigation systems for flowerbeds, shrubs, and trees can save 30–60 gallons per 1,000 square feet of landscape. This is a highly recommended practice for all homeowners.
- Utilize Smart Controllers: Adding a smart irrigation controller that adjusts watering based on local weather and soil moisture can further optimize your schedule and prevent unnecessary watering.
- Invest in Low-Flush Toilets: The City of Fresno offers water rebates for replacing older, water-guzzling toilets with the latest low-flush toilet technology, which is a major indoor water saver.
- Drought-Resistant Landscaping: Planting drought-resistant trees and plants (often called xeriscaping) is a long-term strategy that drastically reduces the need for frequent outdoor watering.
- Check for Leaks: Regularly test toilets for leaks using food coloring and check outdoor faucets and irrigation lines, as minor leaks can waste thousands of gallons annually.
The County of Fresno is continually updating its water conservation documents and policies, including the 2025-2026 Annual Water Report, reflecting the ongoing commitment to water security in the region.
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