2026 Water Restrictions in McKinney
Landscape Water Management Plan & Sprinkler Schedule
The City of McKinney operates under a permanent Landscape Water Management Plan designed to conserve water and manage peak seasonal demand.
As of February 2026, irrigation is limited to two days per week, based on your trash collection schedule.
Here’s everything you need to know about the 2026 McKinney watering restrictions.
McKinney TX Outdoor Watering Schedule (2026)
Residents and businesses may water on:
- ✅ Your regularly scheduled trash collection day
- ✅ Three days later
Example:
If your trash day is Monday, your second watering day is Thursday.
This applies to both residential and commercial properties.
Time-of-Day Irrigation Ban (April 1 – October 31)
🚫 Automatic irrigation is prohibited between 10:00 AM and 6:00 PM
Sprinklers may operate:
- ✅ Before 10:00 AM
- ✅ After 6:00 PM
This reduces evaporative water loss during peak heat.
Conservation Rules & Legal Requirements
To remain compliant in McKinney:
- 🚫 No watering during rainfall
- 🚫 No watering during freezing temperatures
- 🚫 No excessive runoff into streets, alleys, or storm drains
Rain & Freeze Sensors Required
All automatic irrigation systems must have:
- A functional rain sensor
- A functional freeze sensor
Systems must be properly maintained.
Hose & Surface Washing Rules
Hand-held hoses used for washing vehicles or hard surfaces must:
- Include a positive shut-off nozzle
- Avoid excessive runoff
Water waste violations are enforceable.
Exemptions & Special Allowances
Hand Watering
Permitted any day with:
- Shut-off nozzle
- Drip irrigation
- Soaker hoses
⚠️ Must avoid the 10 AM – 6 PM window during peak season.
New Landscaping Exemption
New sod or plant installations may qualify for a 30-day watering exemption, but:
- Must apply through the city’s official website
- Must still follow time-of-day restrictions
- After 30 days, standard schedule applies
ET (Evapotranspiration) Controllers
Irrigation systems with registered and properly functioning ET controllers may be exempt from the twice-weekly schedule.
⚠️ During severe drought conditions, this exemption may be suspended.
Enforcement & Monitoring
The city monitors water usage and enforces violations.
Penalties may include:
- Warning notices
- Fines
- Escalating penalties for repeat violations
For official updates, visit the City of McKinney website.
Smart Watering Tips for McKinney Homeowners
Because McKinney ties watering to trash days, programming accuracy is critical.
- Confirm Your Trash Collection Day
Watering on the wrong day can result in violations.
- Install or Register an ET Controller
Weather-based systems improve compliance and efficiency.
- Use Cycle & Soak Programming
Reduces runoff and improves soil absorption.
- Inspect for Leaks Regularly
Broken sprinkler heads can waste thousands of gallons per month.
Need Help Staying Compliant in McKinney?
If you’re unsure whether your irrigation system complies with McKinney’s 2026 watering restrictions, a professional sprinkler inspection can help you:
- Program trash-day watering correctly
- Install or test rain/freeze sensors
- Adjust seasonal run times
- Repair leaks and overspray
- Prevent runoff violations
- Improve system efficiency
At Lawn Sense, we help McKinney homeowners optimize sprinkler systems to stay compliant while maintaining healthy lawns.
A properly tuned irrigation system helps you:
- Stay within city regulations
- Avoid fines
- Lower your water bill
- Protect your landscape
Frequently Asked Questions
How often can I water in McKinney?
Twice per week — on your trash day and three days later.
What time can I run my sprinklers?
Before 10 AM or after 6 PM (April 1 – October 31).
Are rain and freeze sensors required?
Yes. All automatic systems must have working sensors.
Can new sod be watered daily?
Yes, with a 30-day approved exemption.
Are ET controllers exempt?
Yes, unless restrictions are escalated during drought.
By following the 2026 watering restrictions, McKinney residents help protect long-term water sustainability while maintaining efficient irrigation systems.