Drought Update: Mandatory Water Restrictions Remain in Effect

April 7, 2026 – Haverhill, MA

The City of Haverhill remains in Emergency Drought, and mandatory water use restrictions continue to be in effect under Chapter 250 of the City Code. All residents and businesses are required to comply.

As of this week, Kenoza Lake—Haverhill’s primary drinking water source—is approximately 10.5 feet below average, reflecting ongoing dry conditions and limited seasonal recovery. While the City has received some recent rainfall, it has not been enough to meaningfully restore reservoir levels, and the City still has a significant deficit to overcome.

During the February thaw, a significant amount of snowmelt entered the Millvale Reservoir. However, due to frozen ground conditions, much of that water ran off quickly rather than recharging the system. The City had intentionally lowered Millvale Reservoir in advance to capture as much of this runoff as possible. Even with that preparation, the volume of water arrived faster than the system could transfer the water to Kenoza Lake, resulting in limited overflow.

🚫 Current Water Use Restrictions (Mandatory)

Under the current Drought Emergency, nonessential outdoor water use is prohibited at all times, including:

• Irrigation of lawns
• Use of automatic sprinkler systems
• Washing of vehicles (except at commercial car washes)
• Washing of driveways, sidewalks, patios, or decks
• Filling or topping off swimming pools, hot tubs, or wading pools
• Operation of decorative fountains or water features without aquatic life
• Use of outdoor misting systems
• Irrigation of ornamental plants, flowers, or non-edible landscaping that are not newly planted
• Nonessential construction-related water use 

✅ Limited Allowable Uses (Restricted Hours Only)

The following uses are allowed only before 9:00 a.m. or after 5:00 p.m.:

• Watering of edible plants and vegetable gardens using a watering can, hose with an automatic shut-off nozzle, or drip irrigation system
• Watering of newly planted trees, shrubs, and perennials using a watering can or hose with an automatic shut-off nozzle
• Use of tree watering bags 
• Watering using a hand-held hose with automatic shut-off nozzle or drip irrigation 
• Water for agricultural purposes
• To meet the core functions of a business (for example, irrigation by golf courses as necessary to maintain tees and greens, and limited fairway watering, or irrigation by plant nurseries or agricultural operations as necessary to maintain stock or establish new plantings).

🏠 Indoor Water Conservation Still Matters

• Residents are also encouraged to conserve water indoors by:
• Fixing leaks promptly
• Running full loads in dishwashers and washing machines
• Taking shorter showers
• Using water-efficient fixtures

📢 Compliance is Required

The City will be actively enforcing these restrictions. Violations may result in warnings, fines, and additional enforcement actions.

Water conservation remains critical as warmer weather approaches. The City will continue to monitor conditions and provide updates.