Water Conservation

low reservoir 600x400

California faces a severe drought. Throughout the State, reservoirs have reached historically-low levels. In November 2021, Del Mar aligned its Municipal Code for consistency with State and regional drought declarations and contingency plans, which call for voluntary reductions in water use.

aqueductMost of the water consumed in our region is imported from faraway sources through a series of pipelines, aqueducts and reservoirs operated by the Metropolitan Water District of Southern California. Known commonly as "Met," the agency serves Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino, Ventura and San Diego counties.

Closer to home, the San Diego County Water Authority procures water from Met and other sources to sell to its 24 member agencies, including the City of Del Mar.

On the topic of conservation water managers remind consumers that every drop counts.

Accordingly, the City of Del Mar encourages consumers to limit irrigation to three days per week before 10 a.m. or after 6 p.m. and to observe State of California Permanent Water Waste Prohibitions.

Permanent Water Waste Prohibitions

Irrigation
  • Control irrigation to avoid runoff to adjacent properties, non-irrigated areas, walkways, roadways, parking lots or structures
  • Prohibit the application of potable water to landscapes during and within 48 hours after measurable rainfall
  • Irrigation of landscapes outside newly-constructed buildings must be consistent with policies of the California Building Standards Commission and the Department of Housing and Community Development
Washing
  • Use brooms to clean outdoor paved areas and not water washing except to alleviate immediate safety or sanitation hazards
  • Wash cars only using hand-held hoses with positive shut-off nozzles
Fountains
  • Operate only ornamental fountains that recirculate water

Incentive Programs

drought tolerant landscaping

Water Smart SD is a San Diego County Water Authority program that offers rebates for turf removal and other incentives for improving irrigation efficiency.

SoCal Water$mart offers rebates for installing high-efficiency washing machines, toilets, irrigation equipment and for removing turf. Sponsored by the Metropolitan Water District of Southern California, the program is available on a first-come, first-served basis. 

Water Use Survey

Watersmart Checkup

City of Del Mar water customers are encouraged to get a free Water Use Survey. During the surveys, water conservation specialists provide site-specific recommendations on how to save water (and money) and how to read your meter and check for leaks. 

This service is provided by the Metropolitan Water District of Southern California. Virtual or in-person appointments for residential water use surveys are available. To schedule, complete an online application at: www.waterefficiencysurvey.com.

Potable Water Service in Del Mar

utility workerThe Del Mar Public Works Department provides potable water service to nearly 1,900 metered accounts, including residential, commercial, public facilities and the Del Mar Fairgrounds. The system includes: 27 miles of water mains; four storage reservoirs totaling 4 million gallons of capacity; 664 valves, and 275 fire hydrants.