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Broomfield council adopts revised water-use rules to add large-parcel exceptions and new-sod allowance
Summary
On second and final reading the council unanimously approved Ordinance 2294 to update BroomfieldMunicipal Code Chapter 13-36, adding exceptions for large parcels and new seed/sod, extending reuse irrigation season to March 1, and clarifying enforcement and winter-watering allowances.
The City and County of Broomfield on second and final reading approved Ordinance 2294 to revise municipal water-use and drought restrictions, council members said March 2026.
Mark Lohrey, deputy director of water utilities, told council the amendments respond to feedback from homeowners associations, large property managers and parks staff. Key changes include a registration pathway for large parcels that need more flexible irrigation schedules, a requirement to repair irrigation systems causing waste within 10 business days, a 21-day exception to water newly planted sod or seed during non-drought times, a longer reclaimed-water irrigation season (starting March 1 instead of April 1), and a new winter-watering exception for monitored watering on warm days.
"Trees, shrubs and gardens can be watered anytime if they're watered by hand or efficient irrigation systems like drip lines," Lohrey said, explaining existing clarifications remain in place. He also said fines would start on the third violation (after two warnings) and range from $50 to $1,000 per violation.
During public comment, residents asked whether homeowners associations and large commercial properties would be treated differently. A resident who identified himself as Bill Crothers, said HOA managers had requested exemptions because running many zones within the allowed evening window can be impractical for large sites. Lohrey replied that large properties will have to register with the Department of Water Utilities and provide documentation such as past irrigation-audit results or a commitment to obtain one so the city can verify per-zone compliance.
The council deliberated on communication and implementation; Lohrey said communications materials are prepared to explain the new exceptions and that the proposed changes would take effect seven days after passage so they are in place for the start of the irrigation season. Council approved the ordinance on a unanimous vote.
What happens next: Ordinance 2294 takes effect shortly after publication; staff will post detailed guidance and an online registration form for large parcels on broomfield.org/savewater and begin outreach to HOAs and large property managers.
