In limited situations, a variance from water restrictions may be granted. All variance requests must be submitted using the application forms below. Variances are granted on a case-by-case basis and applicants must continue to follow current watering restrictions until the variance request is approved.
See our frequently asked questions for more details.
Types of Variances
- New Xeriscape Landscape – for a newly installed xeriscape landscape design that requires a special watering schedule.
- Large Property – for large residential or commercial property that cannot be completely watered under the current watering schedule (does not apply to new xeriscape landscape projects).
- Environmental – to protect an endangered plant, animal, aquatic species, or critical environmental feature.
- Health / Safety – to maintain the health, safety, well-being or cleanliness of the public or environment.
- Income – for businesses whose primary source of income depends on using water outside of the watering schedule.
- Medical / Disability – for a documented medical hardship or qualifying disability.
- Tree Disease / Pest Control – to treat a tree for diseases or to control pests.
Variance Approved Plant List
Austin Water might approve other plants that are low or very low water use once established. Stabilization/erosion control plants also qualify for this variance.