Lubbock's Fall & Winter Irrigation Restrictions Effective October 1

LUBBOCK, TX — The City of Lubbock’s annual fall and winter irrigation restrictions will go into effect Tuesday, Oct. 1, 2025, and remain in place through March 31, 2026.

City officials said the seasonal restrictions help minimize hazardous conditions during freezing weather while reducing peak demand on the water system.

Restrictions include:

• Irrigation is only allowed on assigned days and only when temperatures are above 35 degrees.

• Addresses ending in 0, 3, 4, or 9: Monday and Thursday

• Addresses ending in 1, 5, or 6: Tuesday and Friday

• Addresses ending in 2, 7, or 8: Wednesday and Saturday

• No irrigation runoff and no watering during precipitation.

• Hand watering is allowed any time.

Walter "Buzz" Pishkur, interim director of water utilities, said the summer’s rainfall helped keep Lubbock green, but changes in the season require stricter water use.

Stuart Walker, director of code enforcement, stressed the safety impact, warning that watering below 35°F creates icy roads and sidewalks. “Runoff from irrigating during extremely cold weather causes slick roadways and sidewalks. It also leads to potholes,” Walker said. “Beyond that, it’s really just the neighborly thing to do. Don’t be that person that turns your neighborhood into an ice rink.”

Tips for winter irrigation:

• Winterize systems before the first freeze to avoid costly damage.

• Install rain and freeze sensors to prevent irrigation during freezing temperatures.

• Insulate irrigation equipment, pipes, valves, and backflow preventers.

• Contact a licensed irrigator or plumber if assistance is needed.

More information on year-round restrictions can be found through the City of Lubbock.