Water Conservation
Water is essential to us all but it's a limited resource. We all need to rethink the way we use water on a daily basis whether or not California is in a drought. Conserving water is always important. No matter how full or depleted our reservoirs are, we must always be aware that water is a precious commodity. Regardless of how or why we are using water, we must always use it efficiently and be good stewards in using this resource. Please remember to irrigate only on Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday between the hours of 8:00pm and 6:00am for no longer than 15 minutes per station (Please visit the "RESTRICTIONS" tab for additional information).
The City of Chino is dedicated to partnering with the community to become more water efficient.
Turf Replacement Program
The intent of the Turf Replacement program is to have homeowners remove their existing grass and to replace it with organic, drought tolerant landscaping. Please note, synthetic turf is not an approved conversion option for this program. Following the success of other incentive programs focusing on landscaping and turf grass removal, the Turf Replacement program aims to combine turf removal, irrigation modification and rainwater retention or filtration to support reuse or soil absorption of rainwater.
Every turf replacement project will include:
- 3 Plants per 100 square feet of area transformed
- A stormwater retention feature
- No hardscape within the transformed area, except permeable hardscape
- Replacement or modification of overhead spray sprinklers
The turf replacement program takes a multi-prolonged approach to maximize water utilization and conservation.
Online Turf Replacement Application
Sprinkler Timer Upgrade and Tune Up Program
Chino residents can apply for the no-cost Sprinkler Timer upgrade, or the Sprinkler Tune Up Program. To qualify for the Sprinkler Timer Upgrade, property must have an existing operational automatic irrigation system. These device upgrades will adjust daily based upon outside weather patterns. With the Sprinkler Tune-Up, residents may qualify for repair or replacement of up to 12 sprinkler heads and nozzles, valve repair or replacement of up to 3 valves. Apply online by visiting www.conservinc.net.
Sprinkler Upgrade and Tune Up Program Information (PDF)
Water Conservation Rebates
SoCal Water$mart is a rebate program offered by the Metropolitan Water District and administered by EGIA. Through the socalwatersmart.com website, you will be able to access the online rebate application, learn about the program rules and regulations. Visitors to socalwatersmart.com can learn about the rebates that are available for choosing to save water.
On June 7, 2022, the Chino Council Adopted Resolution 2022-037 declaring Level 1 and Level 2 Water Supply Shortages. The following water conservation restrictions, which include, but are not limited to the following, are effective immediately:
- Irrigate on Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday between the hours of 8:00pm and 6:00am for no longer than 15 minutes per station.
- Washing down hard or paved surfaces is prohibited at all times, except when necessary to alleviate safety or sanitary hazards.
- Restaurants are prohibited from serving water to their customers, except when specifically requested.
- Irrigation of non-functional turf (solely ornamental and not used for human recreation purposes or for civic or community events) with potable water at commercial, industrial, and institutional sites is prohibited, except as may be needed to the extent necessary to ensure the health of trees and other perennial non-turf plantings or to the extent necessary to address an immediate health and safety need.
Please visit the Water Conservation Guidelines to see a full list of water conservation restrictions.
Water Conservation Tips
Fresh, clean drinking water is yours to use whenever you need it. Water is a valuable resource to all and should not be wasted. Did you know that the average household uses over 162,000 gallons of water annually? So, help conserve water by following the tips listed below:
Indoors
- Check toilets for leaks
- Install Ultra Low Flush Toilets (ULFTs)
- Only flush when needed
- Place a water displacement device in your toilet tank
- Take shorter showers
- Wash in the bathtub. A partially filled tub uses less water than showering
- Turn off the water when shaving or brushing your teeth
- Install water saving showerheads
- Replace washers to prevent dripping faucets
- Check pipes for leaks in the laundry room and kitchen
- Run full loads only in the dishwasher and washing machine
- Fill the sink when washing/rinsing dishes by hand, don't let the water run continuously
- Choose water saving cycles on appliances
- Install water saving devices such as aerators or flow restrictors
- Check pipes, faucets, and fittings for leaks
Outside
- Plant low water consuming plants
- Water lawn only when it needs it
- Adjust sprinklers to avoid wasting water on sidewalks and driveways
- Place a layer of mulch around trees and plants to keep soil moist
- Don't let the hose run while washing cars, animals, etc.
- Use a broom or rake, instead of water to clean sidewalks and driveways
- Install water saving devices, such as a nozzle that can be shut off or adjusted
- Check for leaks in pipes, hoses, faucets, and couplings
For More Information
For more information regarding water conservation, please call 909-334-3472.
Be Water Wise
Visit the Metropolitan Water District website for conservation information and California Friendly Landscape ideas.
Inland Empire Utilities Agency (IEUA)
Find out what kinds of rebates are currently offered to residents and businesses in the City's service area by visiting the IEUA website. This website also contains water conservation tips and information on the Garden in Every School Program.
Inland Valley Garden Planner
The Inland Valley Garden Planner is designed to help you achieve beautiful, have-it-all gardens that are well suited for our region. Western San Bernardino County's inland valley areas have a Mediterranean climate where a wonderful array of naturally adapted plants can thrive.
Water Education Water Awareness Committee (WEWAC)
WEWAC provides financial support to teachers seeking to do creative classroom projects that increase students' awareness of the importance of water in Southern California. Teachers and educational institutions can also obtain information on how to incorporate water conservation into the regular school curriculum. Find out more on the WEWAC website.
Chino Basin Water Conservation District (CBWCD)
Learn about the Landscape Irrigation Evaluation Program offered to Commercial, Industrial, and Institutional property owners in the City service area on the CBWCD website. The Conservation District also provides various water conservation programs and offers water conservation garden tours.
H2ouse
The H2ouse website uses a graphics based tool to help you identify methods to conserve water in and around your home. Additional information provided on this website includes a water glossary, an educational newsletter, and a water conserving garden guide.
Save Our Water
The Save Our Water website was developed as a joint effort between the California Department of Water Resources and the Association of California Water Agencies to educate Californians on the state's water challenges and how to reduce water consumption every day.
Water Conservation Rebates
SoCal Water$mart is a rebate program offered by the Metropolitan Water District and administered by EGIA. Through the socalwatersmart.com website, you will be able to access the online rebate application, learn about the program rules and regulations. Visitors to socalwatersmart.com can learn about the rebates that are available for choosing to save water. SoCal Water$mart (PDF)