How to Apply for an Irrigation Variance

Overview

If you are installing new landscaping, such as new construction landscaping or replacing existing sod, you must apply for an irrigation variance. An irrigation variance allows watering outside the standard schedule to help establish new landscaping.

When an Irrigation Variance Is Required

An irrigation variance is required when:

• Installing landscaping for new construction.

• Replacing existing sod.

Important Requirements

• Variances are valid for 14 days from approval.

• Replacement projects must cover at least 200 square feet.

• You must follow all time-of-day watering restrictions.

• You must display the variance sign during the approved variance period.

• Water waste is not allowed.

• Water waste violations will void the variance.

• Failure to request and receive approval before watering may result in a violation notice.

• An approved variance received after a violation will not remove the violation if the variance was not requested in advance.

How to Apply for an Irrigation Variance

Follow these steps to submit your request through the Customer Self-Service (CSS) Portal:

1. Log in to the Customer Self-Service (CSS) Portal or create an account.

2. Click the Requests and Alerts tab.

3. Click + New Request.

4. Click the Customer Service drop-down menu.

5. Select the Irrigation Variance option.

6. Click Request Input.

7. Complete the application form with the required information.

8. Click Overview.

9. Click Create Request.

Processing Time

Please allow three to five business days for processing.

A confirmation email will be sent once your request is approved.

Irrigation Variance Terms and Agreements

Before applying, please review the following terms:

• Irrigation variances are not guaranteed during declared drought stages.

• The City of Georgetown is not liable for deceased or damaged sod or plant materials resulting from irrigation variances that have been denied, voided, or postponed.

• Irrigation variances are granted for a maximum of 14 days.

• Applicants must follow the current watering schedule until the variance is approved by Georgetown Water.

• Watering outside the approved schedule before receiving approval may result in a violation.

• Projects involving the addition of materials to existing landscaping, such as top dressing or seed, or treatments such as aeration, do not qualify for a variance.

• Using irrigation in a way that causes water waste may result in revocation of the variance.

• Properties with approved irrigation variances must continue to follow approved watering hours and may not water between 9 a.m. and 7 p.m.

• Customers may be subject to a site inspection upon request by the utility. 

For additional information you may email Conservation Services or call Utilities Customer Care:

• Email: conservationservices@georgetowntexas.gov

• Phone: 512-930-3640