Water Authority implements Voluntary Water Use Restrictions for Roanoke & surrounding communities

ROANOKE, Va. (WDBJ) – The Western Virginia Water Authority is implementing voluntary water use restrictions for Roanoke and surrounding communities beginning Thursday, July 9, 2026.

As outlined in its contingency plan, the Authority issued the voluntary conservation restrictions for the following areas:

• City of Roanoke
• Roanoke County
• Franklin County
• Botetourt County
• Town of Boones Mill
• Town of Vinton

The Authority is asking all commercial and residential customers affected to voluntarily reduce their indoor and outdoor water use.

“The Drought Contingency Plan is based on water levels in the Carvins Cove Reservoir during different months of the year,” the Authority said.

“The declining reservoir level due to continued lack of significant precipitation has triggered Stage 1: Voluntary Conservation.”

The Authority is asking customers to voluntarily reduce their indoor and outdoor water consumption.

• 1. Reduce outdoor water use by only using water before 10 a.m. and after 7 p.m. when evaporation rates are the lowest and by:
  • Reducing turf watering.
  • Using a broom, not the hose, to clean driveways and sidewalks.
  • Reducing vehicle washing.
  • Using bucket watering instead of hose watering when possible.
  • Turning off ornamental fountains.
• 2. Reduce indoor water use by:
  • Identifying and repairing leaks.
  • Turning off the water while shaving, brushing teeth, etc.
  • Reducing shower time to five minutes or taking baths with less water.
  • Only using the clothes washer and dishwasher machines when there are full loads.
  • Storing water in the refrigerator instead of running it to get it cold.
  • Installing water-saver devices in the home, such as low-flow toilets and shower heads.

The Authority said it’ll continue to provide safe, reliable drinking water throughout its service area, and there will be no interruption to water service or water quality due to these measures.

It also says Stage 1 of the Drought Contingency Plan is a proactive measure designed to help preserve the region’s water supply while encouraging simple, voluntary conservation practices throughout the community.

In addition to these voluntary conservation measures, the Authority is implementing operational strategies identified in its Drought Contingency Plan, including maximizing the use of available alternative water sources and closely monitoring reservoir conditions.

Stage 1 Voluntary Conservation represents the first phase of a long-established drought response plan that is intended to be implemented early, allowing the community to conserve water before mandatory restrictions become necessary. These actions help extend existing water supplies while maintaining reliable water for drinking, fire protection, sanitation and recreation.

Protection of the environment and our natural resources is foundational to the Authority’s operation and is one of the principal reasons the Western Virginia Water Authority was formed. This is the first time the

Authority has had to implement the drought contingency plan during its 22-year history.

Customers can see the Authority’s Drought Contingency Plan and view additional water conservation tips by visiting the Authority’s Water Wise webpage – www.westernvawater.org/waterwise

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