Summer 2025 Nantucket Water Restrictions

07/09/2025

Nantucket is located 30 miles out to sea and relies on two underground aquifers, both formed by ancient glaciers, for its freshwater supply. This makes our water source especially delicate.

Due to ongoing drought conditions, Nantucket is currently under mandatory water use restrictions (Level 1 Drought).

Mandatory Outdoor Water Use Restrictions in Effect

The Massachusetts Drought Management Task Force has classified Nantucket as a Level 1 Drought Condition. As our water withdrawal permit from MassDEP requires, restrictions on non-essential outdoor water use are now mandatory.

Lawn Irrigation Rules

All automatic lawn irrigation systems are restricted to two days per week, between 5:00 P.M. and 9:00 A.M.

Exceptions: Gardens and landscape beds using drip irrigation, hand-held hoses, or watering cans are allowed.

• Odd-numbered street addresses: Watering permitted Mondays & Wednesdays, 5:00 P.M. – 9:00 A.M.

• Even-numbered street addresses: Watering permitted Tuesdays & Thursdays, 5:00 P.M. – 9:00 A.M.

• No lawn irrigation allowed on Fridays, Saturdays, or Sundays.

We appreciate your understanding and cooperation in helping to conserve water during your time on the island. A key priority is maintaining adequate water volume to ensure sufficient pressure for emergency services, particularly the Fire Department.

The Water Department urges all residents and visitors to:

• Conserve water, especially during peak hours (4:30 PM to 6:30 PM)

• Limit nighttime irrigation, which is currently restricted to twice per week

The Town is actively monitoring water use through meter readings and will issue fines to homeowners who do not comply with these restrictions.

Thank you for your cooperation and commitment to preserving Nantucket’s vital water resources.