Typically, when you spend more, you expect to get more in return. That’s not the case when it comes to the water in Wheat Ridge. Beginning February 1, 2026, Wheat Ridge Water District water bills increased by $5.51 per month on the service charge for single-family residential customers from $11.02 to $16.53 and by $11.02 for muti-family dwellings per single residential equivalent from $22.03 to $33.05. The metered consumption rate increased by six percent due to the rising cost of materials and labor to fund capital replacements.
Additionally, on April 8, 2026, drought pricing was announced and it will show up on June bills for May usage. There is no charge for tier one water use, which covers essential indoor water use. For tier two water usage, which is efficient outdoor water use, the drought charge is $1.10 for 1,000 gallons and for tier three water usage, which is potentially excessive outdoor use, the charge is $2.20 per 1,000 gallons.
Denver Water declared a stage one drought March 25, 2026, with the goal of a 20 percent reduction of water usage. Granted, the increased expense is for future infrastructure and is unrelated to water usage, but it still feels counterintuitive to some Wheat Ridge residents.
“I am doing my part to conserve water, and I understand why it is necessary, but in a practical sense, it is still frustrating to see my water bill climb while I am not able to hose out my garage,” said Wheat Ridge resident Tom Dowd.
Who provides the water in Wheat Ridge?
According to the City of Wheat Ridge, the city receives most of its water from Denver Water, which declared the stage one drought after historically low snowpack. Other providers including Consolidated Mutual, Valley Water and Wheat Ridge Water District are following suit.
“Since the district is master metered by Denver Water, which means the district purchases water from Denver Water, we utilize their drought information,” said Nick Moncada of Wheat Ridge Water District.
What are the water restrictions?
Under Denver Water’s stage one rules, even-numbered single-family addresses may water Sunday and Thursday. Odd-numbered single-family addresses may water Wednesday and Saturday. Multifamily, commercial and other properties may water Tuesday and Friday. Denver Water also prohibits watering during rain or high winds, requires broken or leaking sprinkler systems to be repaired within 10 days, and implores customers to keep water off pavement, sidewalks and streets. A hose nozzle with a shut-off valve is required when hand-watering or washing a car.
The City of Wheat Ridge identifies that the providers are as following Denver Water restrictions, but each water district’s pricing and specific rules may vary. Consolidated Mutual and Valley Water customers should check their provider’s current drought and rate notices.
Trees, shrubs, flowers, vegetables and other vegetation have their own set of rules. Denver Water allows those plants to be watered any day before 10 a.m. and after 6 p.m., using a hand-held hose or low-volume, non-spray irrigation, such as drip systems.
For Wheat Ridge Water District customers, new seed and sod rules are more specific. Customers may request a variance from assigned watering days. If granted, it allowed 21 days of daily watering before 10 a.m. and after 6 p.m. The district says no variance will be granted for any time extending into June 2026.
How are water restrictions enforced?
Operators that perform maintenance in the district are watching for watering that occurs outside the allowed times,” Moncada said. “Also, if we are notified by a customer that someone is watering, the operators will investigate further,” he added.
For Wheat Ridge Water customers, the first violation results in a warning, the second, a $250 fine, the third, a $500 fine and the fourth and subsequent violations may be fined up to $1,000 each time. Penalties vary by provider.
How long will it last?
• The drought pricing will remain in effect until April 30, 2027.
• Water restrictions are in place through the end of the year and Denver Water evaluates snowpack and reservoir levels each year to determine if restrictions will be implemented.
What does this mean for Wheat Ridge residents?
• Be aware that Wheat Ridge is investing in the necessary future of the water infrastructure.
• Do your part to conserve water and follow the restrictions.
Check with your water district provider for additional details, rules and potential penalties.
