Quick Facts
| Locations tracked | 700+ cities/counties, 47 states |
| Georgia counties moved to restrictions | 53, effective April 27, 2026 |
| Most restrictive active tier | Stage 4 — once every 14 days (parts of TX) |
Drought Restrictions Now Cover Hundreds of U.S. Cities
Water restriction trackers show active restrictions in more than 700 cities and counties spanning 47 states this summer.
The Real Scale, By the Numbers
| Region | Notable Development | Date |
|---|---|---|
| Georgia | 53 counties moved to Level 1 restrictions | April 27, 2026 |
| North/South Carolina | First Stage 2 mandatory restrictions since 2009 | May 1, 2026 |
| Utah (Salt Lake Valley) | Stage 2, driven by low snowpack | March 2026 |
| Texas (Edwards Aquifer region) | J-17 well level near Stage 4 trigger | April 2026: 625.9 ft |
| Florida (SWFWMD) | Modified Phase III "Extreme" shortage declared | Extended through Oct. 1, 2026 |
Why This Matters If You're Planting Anywhere
Restrictions escalate based on measurable triggers — reservoir levels, snowpack, aquifer readings — not politics or guesswork.
Before You Plant Anywhere This Year
- Look up your specific city or county's current restriction stage.
- Check whether your area's restrictions are trending toward tightening.
- Ask your local utility whether new landscaping qualifies for any watering exemption.
- Favor genuinely drought-tolerant plant choices for anything new.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this really a national issue, or mostly the Southwest?
It's genuinely national — restriction trackers currently show active rules in 47 states.
What triggers a restriction stage increase?
Measurable indicators like reservoir levels, snowpack, and aquifer readings.
Should I wait to plant until restrictions lift?
Not necessarily — many stages still allow drip irrigation and hand watering.
