Most New Braunfels residents know that we’ve been dealing with drought concerns for years now. Earlier this year, nearby Canyon Lake hit some of the lowest levels in recorded history, and even after the devastating July floods, the long-term picture hasn’t improved all that much. The reality is that while heavy rains can offer a quick boost, they don’t always reach the recharge zones of the Edwards Aquifer or provide lasting relief to our water supply.
With these concerns in mind, New Braunfels has been under Stage 2 water restrictions for quite some time, following nearly a full year in Stage 3, the stricter level where outdoor watering is even more limited. Stage 2 represents a step back from the tightest rules, but it still comes with important guidelines that everyone in town needs to follow.
So what do Stage 2 water restrictions actually mean for your household? We’ll break down the current rules, explain why they’re in place, and outline what you can do to both stay compliant and help conserve water for the long term.
Why We’re in Stage 2
Stage 2 restrictions kick in when water levels in the Edwards Aquifer and flow rates at Comal Springs fall into a specific range that signals reduced supply. Even though we’re not in the worst stage, conditions are still serious enough that New Braunfels Utilities (NBU) is required to limit pumping.
It’s worth noting that our city isn’t “stricter” than other areas—it just feels that way because New Braunfels has the added responsibility of protecting local spring flows that support endangered species and drive our tourism economy. In short, what happens to our water supply impacts both the environment and the community.
The Stage 2 Rules
The headline rule in Stage 2 is simple: you can only water with sprinklers or irrigation once a week, before 10 a.m. or after 8 p.m., on your assigned day. Your day is determined by the last digit of your address.
Other key rules include:
- Hand watering with a hose, bucket, soaker hose, or drip system is allowed any day, but only during the same morning or evening hours.
- Car washing at home is only allowed on your watering day, with a shut-off nozzle or bucket. Charity washes must happen at a commercial facility.
- Outdoor water features like fountains are off-limits.
- Washing driveways, sidewalks, and other paved areas is prohibited unless for safety or maintenance.
- Pools are allowed but should be covered when not in use to reduce evaporation.
- Foundations may be watered for up to two hours on any day during watering times using a handheld hose, soaker hose, or drip system placed near the foundation, as long as it doesn’t spray into the air.
Violations, such as watering during the wrong hours or letting water run into the street, can be reported to NBU and may result in fines.
How You Can Help Beyond the Rules
Stage 2 restrictions make it clear that conserving water is a long-term reality for New Braunfels. That’s where rainwater collection comes in.
Our partners at Aqua-man Water Conditioning specialize in designing and installing custom rainwater systems that fit the needs of your home or business. These systems capture and store hundreds of gallons every time it rains, giving you an extra source of clean water you can use for landscaping, household needs, or even as a full supply system with proper treatment.
Rainwater harvesting puts you in control. One inch of rainfall on a 1,000-square-foot roof produces around 500 gallons of water. Imagine capturing that instead of letting it run off. By supplementing your usage, you can save money on your water bill, reduce pressure on the Edwards Aquifer, and help protect the springs and rivers that make New Braunfels special.
In a community that’s growing as fast as ours, solutions like these are becoming less of a luxury and more of a necessity.
Want to learn about rainwater collection systems for your home? Click here for more info.