Drought Updates
Approximately 50% of SJW's water supply comes from imported water. Both the state's snowpack and reservoir levels are updated daily and can be accessed through the following links:
When these levels are below average, the amount of imported water supply to meet customer water demand is reduced, leading to drought. The California Drought Monitor, updated weekly, also provides data on the dryness of specific regions throughout the state. SJW relies on these sources to determine the severity of the drought and how much water we have available for our customers.
Drought Resources for Businesses
It’s possible you are using more water for your business than you need to.
San Jose Water partners with Valley Water, who offers free resources for businesses and commercial facilities. These include:
- Table Tents for Restaurants: “Drinking Water By Request”
- Hotel “Linen Reuse” Cards
- High-Efficiency Faucet Aerators – 0.5 gallons per minute
- Pre-Rinse Sprayers – 1.15 gallons per minute
Please email Cindy Torres at ctorres@valleywater.org to request any items which could be helpful for your business.
Additionally, Valley Water offers rebates through their Water Efficient Technology (WET) Rebate Program to help implement equipment changes to reduce commercial or facility water usage. Learn more about the WET Program here.
State Water Board Targets Commercial Properties in New Drought Regulation
As another indication of the severity of our drought, the State Water Resources Control Board recently adopted an emergency water conservation regulation focused on commercial properties to ensure more aggressive water savings.
Owners and managers of commercial, industrial, and institutional properties are not allowed to use potable water for irrigating non-functional turf (except for circumstances identified in the regulation).
The ban does not include watering turf that is used for recreation or other community purposes, water used at residences or water to maintain trees. The regulation went into effect on June 10, 2022. For more information on the regulation, head here. And, here is a description of what qualifies as non-functional turf in Santa Clara County.
Tracking Every Drop!
Mandatory conservation is in place. Every drop saved makes a difference.
Plan Details
Visit this page for a summary of the plan, links to additional resources and more.
Allocation Appeal Forms
Trying to file a customer allocations appeal? There are three ways to do this. Click here for instructions and downloadable forms in English and Spanish.
Leak Status Map
When it comes to reports of water loss, we are on it! Learn more about our leak response process at Leak Repairs. And if you want to find out the status of a specific leak, check out our map.
Water Use Restrictions
- Due to extreme drought conditions, water use restrictions are currently in place. See the full list of restrictions here.
- View our Public Notice in English and Spanish plus our August 2021 postcard to all customers.
Helpful Links
How to Read Your Meter
How to Check for Leaks
Report Water Waste and Leaks
If you see water waste:
Please fill out this form and provide as much detail as possible so our staff can best act to resolve the matter.
If you see a leak:
Please complete this form so we can investigate as soon as possible.
If you need to report a major leak or water emergency:
Call (408) 279-7900 and our crews will assist you as quickly as possible.
Drought Brochure
Drought Updates & Resources
Full announcements and older updates are stored in our Drought Updates Archive.
Valley Water Resources and Rebates
Valley Water Monthly Water Tracker
Fighting the Drought: How You Can Help
Santa Clara County is facing an extreme drought emergency. Avoiding water waste is one of SJW's top priorities and we need your help. Watch this video to learn about simple steps you can take to conserve water.
Drought Public Hearing
Watch the the recorded Drought Public Hearing held on Thursday, October 28, 2021 or download a copy of the presentation here.