The Highlands Ranch Water Board of Directors voted Monday night to implement drought pricing under Stage 1 drought restrictions for billing periods after May 1. The action supports the board’s focus on safeguarding the community’s long-term water supply and reinforces the need to reduce overall water use by 15–20%.

Stage 1 drought restrictions have been in place since April 1. The newly adopted drought pricing applies only to water use that exceeds a customer’s individualized water budget, ensuring that customers who stay within their budget will not see any change to their water rates.

Under the drought pricing structure, residential customers who exceed their budget will see an increase in their water rate from $7.66 to $9.58 per 1,000 gallons for usage between 101–120% of their budget, and an increase from $11.63 to $14.54 per 1,000 gallons for usage between 121–140%. Commercial customers will also see drought pricing for use above their unique water budgets.

“Our goal with drought pricing is to encourage efficient water use and protect our shared water resources,” said General Manager Sam Calkins. “Customers who follow the two-day watering schedule and stay within their water budget can avoid the increased prices.

“Small changes in outdoor watering can make a big difference. By working together, we can reduce overall water use and help ensure a reliable water supply during these challenging conditions.”

In addition to drought pricing, all customers are expected to follow the district’s water use rules and regulations. Highlands Ranch Water prioritizes education first, working with customers to address issues and encouraging conservation before fines are applied.

Examples of violations include:

• Watering during restricted hours or days
• Excessive water waste
• Broken or malfunctioning irrigation system
• Unattended or running hoses
• Unrepaired leaks

Customers observed in violation will first receive a warning and guidance on how to correct the issue. Continued violations may result in fines.

By staying within their water budget and following watering guidelines, customers can avoid increased pricing and play a vital role in protecting the community’s water supply.

For more information about Stage 1 drought restrictions and conservation resources, visit Highlands Ranch Water’s Drought Resource Center.