If you own a home in Colorado Springs, you juggle two big lawn priorities each year: follow local watering rules and protect your irrigation system from freeze damage. You want a healthy yard without fines or costly repairs, and you want a simple plan you can trust. This guide covers the Water Wise rules, when to schedule a sprinkler blowout, backflow testing, drought-stage changes, and a quick checklist to keep you on track. Let’s dive in.
Water Wise rules at a glance
Colorado Springs Utilities limits overhead sprinklers to any three days per week that you choose. From May 1 to Oct 15, sprinklers may not run between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. Drip irrigation, watering cans, and hoses with shut‑off nozzles are allowed any time. You must repair broken or leaking systems within 10 days. See full details on the official Water Wise Rules.
Drought stages can tighten schedules
During water shortages, the city can move into stricter drought stages with tighter watering schedules and time limits. Stage II, for example, can reduce watering to two days per week on odd/even schedules with per‑zone caps. Rules vary by stage and are outlined in the City Code for shortage stages.
Permits and special allowances
If you install new sod or seed, you can apply for an establishment permit to water more often for a limited time while plants root. Review the steps and timing on the establishment permit page. In certain cases, Utilities may approve a site‑specific water allocation plan that sets volumetric and timing allowances, as defined in the City Code.
When to schedule your sprinkler blowout
Plan your blowout in October for most Colorado Springs homes. Local climate normals show the average first fall freeze around October 1, and weather can swing, so watch the forecast and act early if overnight lows hold near freezing. CSU’s seasonal guidance notes most homeowners shut down irrigation in October and keep it off until spring. Check CSU’s October landscape tips and the National Weather Service’s freeze-date normals when picking your date.
How blowouts work and why PSI/CFM matter
Pros connect a compressor, cycle each zone, and push out water until the lines run clear. Using the right air volume is key. Industry guidance stresses using a regulator and staying within safe pressure ranges for your pipe type, with many resources advising roughly sub‑80 psi for PVC and lower for polyethylene. If you are unsure about equipment sizing or technique, hire a pro. See a clear overview in this industry guide to winterizing systems.
Safety basics
- Use a pressure regulator and eye protection.
- Do not stand over heads, valves, or the backflow assembly during blowout.
- Small shop compressors often lack the air volume needed; many pros use higher‑CFM units and clear zones in short cycles.
Protect your backflow and know testing rules
Above‑ground backflow assemblies should be drained and insulated for winter. If your property has a tracked backflow assembly, annual testing is required. For irrigation backflow devices, test results are due by July 1 each year. Domestic and fire assemblies are typically due by Oct 1. Failure to comply can lead to fines per assembly and even water service suspension. Review the official requirements on CSU’s Backflow Prevention Program.
Spring start‑up basics
Wait until the freeze risk has passed before turning irrigation back on. Open the main valve slowly, pressurize the system gradually, then run each zone and check for leaks or damaged heads. Make repairs before returning to your regular schedule.
Quick homeowner checklist
- Schedule your blowout in October. If a cold snap arrives early, shut off water, drain what you can, and insulate exposed parts. Refer to CSU’s October tips.
- Drain and cover the backflow. If yours is tracked by Utilities, schedule and submit your annual test by July 1 via CSU’s Backflow Prevention Program.
- Planting new sod or seed? Apply for an establishment permit before you water outside normal limits.
- During winter dry spells, water trees and shrubs midday 1 to 2 times per month when temps allow. CSU explains how and why in its winter watering guidance.
- Follow the Water Wise Rules: three days per week, no sprinklers 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. May 1–Oct 15, fix leaks within 10 days.
For buyers and sellers
If you are buying, ask for recent blowout dates, any backflow test records, and details on permits or allocation plans tied to the property. Confirm water‑wise compliance and whether the system has been professionally maintained. If you are selling, gather documentation now: blowout receipts, backflow tests, and any permits. Clear records help reduce surprises in inspection and keep your deal on track.
Ready to make a smart move in Colorado Springs? Reach out to The Daniels Team for local guidance on homes, inspections, and the details that protect your investment.
FAQs
What are the watering rules for sprinklers in Colorado Springs?
- Overhead sprinklers are limited to any three days per week, and from May 1 to Oct 15 you cannot water between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m.; see CSU’s Water Wise Rules.
When should I blow out sprinklers in Colorado Springs?
- Plan for October, watching forecasts and local freeze normals; CSU’s October tips and the NWS freeze-date page are helpful.
How do drought stages change my watering schedule?
- During declared shortages, the city can impose stricter limits such as fewer watering days and minute-per-zone caps; check the City Code for shortage stages.
Do I need a permit to water new sod or seed?
- Yes, an establishment permit allows extra watering for a limited period while turf establishes; review CSU’s establishment permit details.
What are the backflow testing requirements for irrigation systems?
- If your irrigation backflow assembly is tracked by Utilities, testing is required annually with results due by July 1; see CSU’s Backflow Prevention Program.
Can I do a DIY sprinkler blowout safely?
- It is possible, but improper PSI or low CFM can damage your system; many homeowners hire a pro. See this industry guide on safe PSI and methods.
Will my HOA handle irrigation winterization?
- It depends on your HOA’s governing documents; many HOAs handle common areas only. Review your CC&Rs and ask the board; here’s a general HOA maintenance overview.
