WORCESTER — Worcester officials have banned all non-essential, outdoor water use, and residents are urged to minimize overall water use while the city is in “critical drought” status.
The restrictions apply to all water users, city officials said in a statement on Wednesday.
Worcester is among Bay State communities experiencing “critical drought” status.
Earlier this month, state environmental officials declared a Level-3 Critical Drought for the central and northeast regions of Massachusetts. That level is one level from emergency drought status.
In Worcester, other restrictions include reducing irrigation of fairways at golf courses “to 40% of normal, and there shall be no irrigation of roughs, landscaping, or ornaments,” city officials said.
State officials provided the following guidelines for residents in regions in Level 3 – Critical Drought:
Residents and Businesses:Minimize overall water useFollow state water conservation actions and any local water use restrictionsMonitor total household water use shown on your water bill for sudden increases, which often indicate leaks. Use the MA Home Water Use Calculator tool to evaluate household water use.Fix any toilet or faucet leaks immediately. Check for leaks in homes and businesses regularly by:Checking water meters for constant dial movementUsing dye tabs to check for toilet leaksConducting regular inspections of all pipes and fixtures, including those located in utility rooms, crawlspaces, and other hidden areasUse dishwashers rather than handwashing dishes. Run the dishwasher only on a full loadAggressively reduce indoor water use by:Taking showers and avoiding bathsReducing shower length and consider using a shower timerRunning washing machines only on a full loadNot letting water run while brushing and shavingReplacing old fixtures and appliances with water-efficient ones. Make sure toilets, faucets, and showerheads are WaterSense labeled Stop all non-essential water use Immediate Steps for Communities/Municipalities:Provide timely information on the drought and on water conservation tips to local residents and businesses taking advantage of the state’s library of outreach materialsEnforce water use restrictions with increasingly stringent penaltiesStrongly discourage or prohibit washing of hard surfaces (sidewalks, patios, driveways, siding); personal vehicle or boat washingEstablish or enhance water-use reduction targets for all water users, identify top water users and conduct targeted outreach to help curb their use Short- and Medium-Term Steps for Communities/Municipalities:Establish a year-round water conservation program that includes public education and communication, taking advantage of the state’s library of outreach materialsImplement or establish drought surcharge or seasonal water ratesPrepare to activate emergency inter-connections for water supplyDevelop or refine your local drought management plan using guidance outlined in the state Drought Management Plan
For more information, visit the state’s website.
Worcester residents with questions about drought-level water restrictions should visit Worcester 311 at www.worcesterma.gov/311.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available.
Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts.
Follow Boston 25 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch Boston 25 News NOW
©2026 Cox Media Group