Your local park may look a little thirsty as the city gears up to comply with drought restrictions.
While many parks and golf courses are irrigated with recycled water — which is exempt from Denver Water’s restrictions — about 70 percent of Denver Parks and Recreation properties use fresh water, which must be restricted by 20 percent during this drought.
As part of the drought restrictions, DPR committed to the following:
- Prioritizing irrigation for trees and “high-value landscapes.”
- Reducing irrigation in non-recreational turf areas and medians.
- Continuing operations at pools, splashpads and athletic fields.
- Turning off decorative fountains during the 2026 season.
- Using smart irrigation technology to improve efficiency and reduce waste.
Watering schedules for parks will vary under Denver Water’s restrictions. As part of the restrictions, DPR said people may notice grass in parks becoming brown or dry.
If drought conditions continue, athletic fields may close early to “ensure the long-term field health and playability.”
Denver Water declared mandatory drought restrictions in March after an unusually dry winter. Under those restrictions, residents are only allowed to water grass twice weekly and restaurants can only serve water upon request. People have also been asked to report neighbors who aren’t complying with the rules.
