On Friday, May 8, 2026, the Town of Frisco is moving into Phase Three mandatory water use restrictions. This action follows a historically low snowfall season, and the subsequent approval of Ordinance 26-10 authorizing the Town Manager to implement water conservation measures outside of the standard triggers outlined in Chapter 171-20 of the Town of Frisco Water Code.
“Given the significantly below-average snowfall this winter, it’s clear that waiting for traditional triggers would put unnecessary strain on our water supply. Moving into Phase Three restrictions now allows us to be proactive rather than reactive,” stated Frisco Town Manager Tom Fisher.
“These measures are precautionary, not a sign of immediate crisis, but they are an important step to protect our community’s long-term water security. Frisco has always come together during times like this, and with continued cooperation, we can ensure a reliable water supply for the summer season ahead.”
Current Conditions
As of April 30, 2026, the North Ten Mile Creek watershed, which provides Frisco with much of its water, has received 99.95 inches of snowfall this winter season, producing 9.155 inches of snow water equivalent (SWE). This is significantly below the latest five-year averages of 180.28 inches of snowfall and 14.534 inches of SWE, representing approximately 55% of average snowfall and more than a 37% reduction in stored water.
Water Use Restriction Details
Phase Three restrictions make the Town’s irrigation schedule and other requirements enforceable under Section 171-22 of the Frisco Water Code.
Outdoor Watering/Irrigation Mandatory Restrictions
The irrigation schedule is as follows and is mandatory:
- Even-numbered addresses may water on: Tuesday and Saturday – overnight between 6:00pm and 9:00am
- Odd-numbered addresses may water on: Sunday and Wednesday – overnight between 6:00pm and 9:00am
- No outdoor irrigation on Mondays, Thursdays, and Fridays
You may water flowers, plants, bushes, and trees anytime using drip irrigation, a watering can, or a hose with an automatic shut-off valve.
Other Water Use Restrictions
- You may only wash a structure, motor vehicle or boat, if the hose being used is equipped with an automatic shut-off valve.
- You may not wash any paved area.
- You may only serve water to a customer of a commercial establishment, such as a restaurant, if the customer first requests water.
Background and Outlook
Frisco has rarely needed to move beyond Phase One voluntary restrictions. The last significant water shortages occurred during the summers of 2012 and 2025, when drought conditions forced the Town to turn off the water treatment plant, and each time, the community has rallied to reduce water usage significantly to preserve access to water for the whole community.
Town of Frisco water is primarily produced from the Wayne Bristol Surface Water Treatment Plant: rated at 1 million gallons per day production and has a water right on North Ten Mile Creek for 1.54 cubic feet per second. The Town is also currently using two water wells, Wells 5 and 6, to provide water, while Well 7 remains unused due to the implementation of PFAS treatment plans.
Phase Three restrictions are precautionary and in response to low snowfall conditions —not an emergency—and are intended to proactively support the Town’s water supply. Fire protection and the supply of drinking water are not currently at risk.
Community Cooperation and More Information
Residents and businesses should cooperate fully with the water use restrictions, avoid water waste, and remain mindful of water use, as we head into the summer season. During past restrictions, the Frisco community’s diligence has been shown to be very successful in ensuring ongoing and secure access to water for the whole Frisco community.
For more details on Frisco’s water use code and conservation efforts, visit FriscoWater.com or contact the Public Works Department at 970-668-0836.