Outdoor Watering
Can I change my watering day?
No. Exceptions are very limited and only granted if unique circumstances prevent use of the property for its intended purpose (e.g., a soccer field scheduled for play).
Can I run my drip system on other days?
No, all outdoor irrigation must occur on designated watering days, except vegetable gardens for personal consumption on drip systems, which are not restricted.
Can I use gray water for outdoor plants?
Yes, up to 100 gallons per household per day. Gray water can come from showers, washing machines, etc., and must comply with health and safety regulations. More information: Gray Water Corps.
Are there restrictions on filling my swimming pool?
Avoid draining and refilling pools unless absolutely necessary. Routine use of an automatic pool filler is acceptable. Covering pools is recommended to reduce evaporation. Frequent emptying between May 1 and September 30 is prohibited.
What about vegetable gardens?
Vegetable gardens for personal use on drip systems are unrestricted. Gardens using other irrigation methods or producing more than personal consumption must follow allowed watering days.
Can I wash sidewalks, driveways, or buildings?
Washing sidewalks, driveways, or other pavement is prohibited. Exterior walls can only be washed for maintenance or preparation for painting/stucco.
When can I wash my car?
Car washing is allowed with a water flow control device, ensuring minimal water waste. Non-profit car wash fundraisers are prohibited under Level C, D, or E drought restrictions (City is currently Level C).
Reporting and Monitoring
Where do I report water wasting or leaks?
Staff respond to every report received regarding customers not following water use regulations. Customers may report incidents using our online form or by phone.
Information to include when reporting water waste:
- Address of water waste, including major cross streets. If unknown, provide as much location information as possible.
- Date and time the water waste was observed.
- Details of the observation:
- Was water running into the gutter?
- Approximately how long had the water been running?
- Was the water waste from irrigation, an open hose, or a broken sprinkler?
- Whether this is a recurring issue at the same location.
Water Quality and Infrastructure
How pure is the City water?
The City’s water quality is very good. Weekly testing is performed, and the annual water quality report is available at www.madera.gov/ccr.
Why is the City slow to fix street leaks?
Before repairs, utility clearances must be obtained through Underground Service Alert (“811 Call Before You Dig”). Leaks are addressed by priority, with major water loss addressed first. If it’s not clear that the City is aware of a leak, call (559) 661-5466 to report it. After-hours emergencies can be reported at (559) 675-4200.
Sewer FAQs
My sewer line is backing up in my house. Will the City unplug my line?
The City will confirm that the blockage is not in the main line. However, the homeowner is responsible for any lateral line that runs from the main line to their home or business.
I've had a plumber say there are tree roots in my sewer line. What can I do?
Once the line is clean, products available at local hardware stores can prevent tree roots from returning when applied to the lateral line.
Where is my house lateral line located?
For homes built in the last 25 years, an "S" or "L" is typically stamped on the curb in front of the house, indicating the lateral line location within approximately 1 foot on either side.
Where are the clean-outs for my house lateral line?
Homes built in the last 25 years should have two clean-outs: one just behind the sidewalk and one next to the house.
If I need to dig in my parkway, should I call someone first?
Yes. Contact Underground Service Alert (USA) at 1-800-642-2444 before digging.
