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Department » Austin Water Utility » Programs » Watering Variances

Watering Variances

In limited situations, Austin Water may grant a variance from the water restrictions.  All variance requests must be submitted using the applications below. Variances are issued on a case-by-case basis. Applicants must follow the current watering schedule until Austin Water approves a variance.

See our Frequently Asked Questions for more details. 

TYPES OF VARIANCES

  • New Xeriscape Landscape – for a newly installed xeriscape landscape design that requires a special watering schedule.
  • Large Property – for large residential or commercial property that cannot be completely watered under the current watering schedule (does not apply to new xeriscape landscape projects).
  • Environmental – to protect an endangered plant, animal, aquatic species, or critical environmental feature.
  • Health / Safety – to maintain the health, safety, well-being or cleanliness of the public or environment.
  • Income – for businesses whose primary source of income depends on using water outside of the watering schedule.
  • Medical / Disability – for a documented medical hardship or qualifying disability.
  • Tree Disease / Pest Control – to treat a tree for diseases or to control pests.

VARIANCE APPROVED PLANT LIST

Austin Water might approve other plants that are low or very low water use once established. Stabilization/erosion control plants also qualify for this variance.

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