Save water at home
Water conservation remains important in Lakewood, even when drought emergency restrictions are not in effect. Using water wisely helps protect local water supplies, reduce waste and lower utility costs.
State and local water rules can change depending on drought conditions, water supply and state requirements. This page provides general water-saving practices and links to resources that can help you monitor and reduce water use.
General water-saving practices
- Avoid watering during or within 48 hours after measurable rainfall.
- Use a broom instead of a hose to clean sidewalks, driveways and other hard surfaces.
- Adjust sprinklers to prevent runoff onto sidewalks, gutters, streets and neighboring properties.
- Use a bucket or hose with an automatic shut-off nozzle when washing cars or equipment.
- Repair leaks as soon as possible.
- Water landscaping early in the morning or later in the evening to reduce evaporation.
Non-functional turf at commercial and public properties
California has adopted long-term rules that will phase in restrictions on watering non-functional turf with potable water at certain public, commercial, industrial, institutional and HOA common-area properties.
Non-functional turf generally means grass that is decorative and not used for recreation, sports, civic events or other active use.
The law does not apply to individual single-family residential lawns, but all residents are encouraged to use water wisely and consider water-efficient landscaping.
Lakewood uses recycled water for irrigation
Recycled water is wastewater or stormwater that has been treated to a level that is safe to use for irrigation.
Many of Lakewood’s parkways and street medians are irrigated with recycled water, and the city also operates a water truck that uses recycled water.
Use WaterSmart to monitor water use
City of Lakewood water customers can use WaterSmart to review water use, spot possible leaks and pay or view a water and trash bill online.
Accessibility note: WaterSmart is a third-party website and may not fully meet accessibility standards. If you need help paying your bill or accessing WaterSmart information, please contact Administrative Services at 562-866-9771, ext. 6163.
Use WaterSmart to monitor water use
Water-saving tips
Save water around the house
- Run clothes washers and dishwashers only with full loads.
- Install low-flow showerheads and faucet aerators.
- Turn off the tap while brushing teeth, shaving or washing dishes by hand.
- Fix dripping faucets and leaking plumbing as soon as possible.
- Use a broom instead of a hose to clean driveways and sidewalks.
Water trees during dry weather
Young and mature trees may need deep watering during dry weather, especially during heat waves.
- Water slowly and deeply within the tree’s dripline, which is the area under the outer edges of the branches.
- Do not water only at the base of the trunk.
- Use a soaker hose or slow flow to help water reach deeper roots.
- Avoid fertilizing trees that are under drought stress.
Learn more about caring for parkway trees.
Repair leaks and track water use
Even small leaks can waste a large amount of water over time. Repair leaky faucets, toilets and plumbing joints as soon as possible.
City of Lakewood water customers can use WaterSmart to review water use and help spot possible leaks.
Save water outdoors
- Adjust sprinklers so water lands on landscaping, not sidewalks, driveways or streets.
- Choose California-friendly or water-wise plants when planning or updating landscaping.
- Group plants with similar water needs together.
- Use mulch to help retain moisture and reduce weeds.
- Consider drip irrigation or smart irrigation controllers where appropriate.
Learn more about water-wise landscaping.