Hose-end sprinkler users: get a variance to water earlier

The new Stage 3 watering hours have left some SAWS customers concerned about dragging around their hose-end sprinklers in the dark.

That’s because new watering times shifted to earlier in the morning and later in the evening. But hose-end sprinkler users can avoid having to water late at night by applying for a variance.

Apply online at saws.org/hose. You will need your SAWS account number to apply. If approved, the variance will allow you to water from 7-10 p.m. (instead of 9 p.m. to midnight) on your watering day.

The variance is only for residential customers who rely on above-ground hoses and attached sprinklers to water their landscape. Customers with an in-ground irrigation system — working or not — are not eligible. But you can request a free irrigation system consultation and earn a rebate to permanently remove it. Call 210-704-SAVE (7283) to schedule.

As a reminder, new Stage 3 watering hours for sprinkler users (in-ground and hose-end without a variance) are from 5-10 a.m. and 9 p.m. to midnight on your watering day. You can still water with a hand-held hose any time, any day.