Water Conservation

Cal Water 

The City of San Mateo's water supply is provided by California Water Service (Cal Water), a private water supplier that provides water to 21 districts in California. Cal Water is responsible for developing and enforcing the compliance plan to meet state regulations. 

Cal Water has rebates and resources available for water conservation, information regarding water use restrictions, and the latest drought news.

Prohibited Uses of Water

  • Applying water to outdoor landscapes that causes runoff onto adjacent property, non-irrigated areas, private and public walkways, roadways, parking lots, or structures
  • Using a hose to wash motor vehicles unless the hose is fitted with a shutoff nozzle or device that causes it to cease dispensing water immediately when not in use
  • Applying water to driveways and sidewalks
  • Using water in a water feature, except where the water is part of a recirculating system
  • Applying water to outdoor landscapes during and within 48 hours after measurable rainfall (0.25 inches)
  • Irrigating outside of new construction without drip or microspray systems
  • Irrigating landscape between the hours of 8 a.m. and 6 p.m., and irrigating outside of approved watering days
  • Street address ending inWatering days
    Odd numberTuesday and Saturday
    Even numberWednesday and Sunday
    No numberWednesday and Sunday

Visit https://www.calwater.com/conservation/drought/prohibited-uses-water/ for more information on prohibited water uses and additional water use restrictions.

City of San Mateo and BAWSCA Rain Barrel Rebate 

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Prepare for the rainy season by installing a rain barrel!  Rebates of up to $100 are now available 

Prepare for the rainy season by installing a rain barrel and receive a $100 rebate!
Join the movement to protect our community from pollution while conserving water.
1,000 square feet of roof surface can capture 625 gallons of water for every 1 inch of rainfall, that's over 11,000 gallons from one home per year!

Harvesting rainwater with the help of a rain barrel is one of the simplest ways to lighten your water footprint, fight pollution, and prevent flooding. City of San Mateo residents who buy and install qualifying rain barrels can collect rebates of $100 per barrel. 

Find out more and apply for your rebate