*Please note: The above Massachusetts Drought Status Map was issued on May 22, 2026. This map and related drought status remains in effect until the next State-issued delcaration. Declarations are issued as conditions dictate. For a real-time look at current drought status, please visit: https://www.mass.gov/info-details/drought-status
[DOWNLOAD: Read the official Hyannis Water System State of Water Conservation Notice]
There’s some good news for Hyannis Water System customers: the Cape Cod Region has officially been downgraded from a Level 2 drought to a Level 1 – Mild Drought status by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
As a result, the Barnstable Municipal Water Supply Board has voted to lessen non-essential outdoor water use restrictions for customers served by the Hyannis Water System.
While conservation measures remain in place, the updated restrictions are less stringent than those required under the previous drought level.
Why Restrictions Still Exist
Even though drought conditions have improved, Massachusetts regulations require public water suppliers to continue implementing water conservation measures during declared drought conditions.
These requirements are part of the Hyannis Water System’s state-issued Water Withdrawal Permit and are designed to help protect Cape Cod’s groundwater resources during periods of reduced precipitation and lower groundwater levels.
The restrictions help ensure there is enough water available for:
- Drinking water
- Fire protection
- Public health and safety needs
- Essential business operations
What Changed?
Under the updated Level 1 Mild Drought restrictions:
Automatic Irrigation & Sprinklers
Outdoor watering using sprinklers or automatic irrigation systems is now permitted one day per week.
- Odd-numbered addresses may water on odd-numbered calendar days
- Even-numbered addresses may water on even-numbered calendar days
Allowed Watering Hours
Outdoor watering is permitted only during the following hours:
- 5:00 PM to 9:00 AM
Hand Watering is Allowed
Residents may continue watering lawns, gardens, flowers, and ornamental plants using:
- Hand-held hoses
- Drip irrigation
- Buckets
Why Drought Declarations Matter
Drought status is determined by the Massachusetts Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs based on a combination of factors, including:
- Long-term precipitation trends
- Groundwater levels
- Streamflow and environmental conditions
Importantly, drought conditions are based on long-term regional data — not simply whether it rained recently.
Conservation Still Matters
Even with improving conditions, water conservation remains an important part of protecting Cape Cod’s sole-source aquifer and ensuring a reliable public water supply throughout the busy summer season.
Customers are encouraged to:
- Water efficiently
- Avoid unnecessary irrigation before rainfall
- Fix leaks promptly
- Use water-saving fixtures whenever possible
Free water conservation kits — including showerheads, faucet aerators, and toilet tank flappers — remain available to Hyannis Water System customers through the Water Supply Division.
Enforcement & Compliance
The updated restrictions remain mandatory under state regulations.
Violations may result in:
- First violation: Written warning
- Second violation: $100 fine
- Third and subsequent violations: $300 fine
Learn More
Customers with questions may contact the Hyannis Water System at (508) 775-0063.
For more information on statewide drought conditions, visit: https://www.mass.gov/info-details/drought-status