For the first time since 2008, Rapid City is enacting early water restrictions due to drought conditions. Starting May 1, residents are prohibited from watering lawns between 9 a.m. and 6 p.m. Odd-numbered addresses may water on odd-numbered days, and even-numbered addresses on even-numbered days. No watering is allowed on the 31st of any month. Manual watering with handheld hoses or containers is permitted. Since implementing water conservation measures in the 1990s, Rapid City has seen a notable decrease in water usage. Average daily water use per person has dropped from 168 gallons to approximately 132 gallons. These measures aim to reduce evaporation during peak heat hours and lessen the strain on the city’s water infrastructure.
If you have newly installed sod or seeded areas of lawn which are covered with mulch, you may qualify for a waiver from watering restrictions.