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Drought Preparedness for Public Water Systems

May 2025—Hot summer months are approaching, bringing dry conditions to the state. Public water systems may start to see a strain on their water supplies.

TCEQ encourages public water systems to take reasonable actions to increase conservation efforts and to find and secure alternative water supplies to meet system needs.

Conservation Measures

The following are conservation measures and alternative water supply plans you can use to prepare for drought:

  • Start implementing your Drought Contingency Plan (DCP) to reduce consumption.
  • Encourage water conservation.
  • Conduct public education and outreach activities.
  • Measure and track existing water supplies.
  • Repair leaks in your distribution system to limit water loss.
  • Evaluate infrastructure and develop plans to meet needs (such as extending intake structures to deeper waters, drilling new wells, etc.).
  • Seek authorizations and explore funding resources to extend your existing water supply or obtain new sources.

Your DCP is an important tool in conserving and managing your water supply during difficult times. We encourage you to review your DCP and prepare to apply water use restrictions as appropriate. If the water system you purchase from has started restrictions, review your purchased water contract and be prepared to also put restrictions in place if necessary.

When to Notify TCEQ

Use the online drought reporting form to notify TCEQ of water supply shortages or of any changes to your water use restrictions. Contact your local TCEQ regional office if you are experiencing an emergency or need immediate help.

In the event that you need to haul in drinking water, it must be obtained and transported by a TCEQ-approved water hauler. 

Additional Information

TCEQ has a free financial, managerial, and technical (FMT) assistance program to help your water system with drought and many other compliance issues. 

For more drought information, visit our Drought in Texas webpage. 

For questions, please call the Environmental Assistance Hotline at 800-447-2827 or the Water Supply Division’s Emergency Preparedness Section at 512-239-1077.