Denver Water recognizes that large irrigation customers may not be able to comply with two days per week watering restrictions and need more flexibility to reach all their irrigation zones; therefore, the 2026 Water Budget Program provides a process for eligible customers to apply for an exemption in the form of a water budget subject to Denver Water’s approval.

The 2026 Water Budget Program is a water management tool designed to give non-residential, large irrigation customers flexibility in how they use their allocated water across multiple properties to achieve a 20% reduction during irrigation season — May 1 through Oct. 31.

The 2026 Water Budget Program is currently accepting applications for consideration through June 1. Approved applications will require a signed agreement between the applicant and Denver Water, which outlines the requirements and financial penalties.

To be eligible for the Water Budget Program, applicants must demonstrate:

• The property address(es) are situated within the City and County of Denver or within the Total Service or Read and Bill portions of Denver Water’s service area;
• The total combined irrigated area is a minimum of 1 acre in size; 
• The rationale for why the applicant cannot comply with Denver Water’s two days per week watering restriction; and 
•  A rationale for how a 20% reduction in water use can be achieved for the total irrigated area compared to the customer’s average water use over the past 5 years for the period of May 1 through Oct. 31.

At this time, Recycled Water used for irrigation is not subject to the 20% reduction in outdoor water use restrictions and therefore those properties are not eligible for the Water Budget Program.

Applicants must fill out an application, which includes the property names, address(es), meter/tap information, contact information for the designated primary contact person for the properties proposed for inclusion in the Water Budget Program. 

Questions about the 2026 Water Budget Program can be directed to email.