How to Apply for an Irrigation Variance: A Field Saving Strategy for Drought Season

If you're responsible for athletic field irrigation in Texas or anywhere in the Southwest, you know the battle: long, hot summers, strict watering restrictions for athletic fields, and the constant pressure to keep fields safe and playable.

When standard irrigation schedules won’t cut it, an irrigation variance could be the key to keeping your fields healthy without breaking the rules. Here's how to navigate the process with confidence and make the case for a responsible exemption.

Understand Local Watering Restrictions

Before you fill out a single form, get clarity on your city or water district’s current rules. Every purveyor has different policies and, in recent years, many have evolved to address ongoing drought concerns, environmental initiatives, and increased enforcement.

Contact your local water utility directly and ask:

• What current restrictions exist for sports field water management?

• Are irrigation variances available for athletic fields, and under what circumstances?

• What documentation is required, and what is the approval timeline?

Having these answers early can save you time and position yourself as a proactive partner in conservation and turf management during drought.

Document Your Irrigation System and Turf Needs

A successful irrigation variance request depends on your ability to demonstrate smart water use. Before applying, gather system data that shows how your irrigation is optimized for both conservation and athletic field safety.

You'll typically need:

• Precipitation rates and flow rates by zone

• Run times for each zone, especially during peak season

• Weekly water requirements based on grass type, soil, and climate

• Details on system hardware like heads, nozzles, and operating pressure

• Any supporting material from a recent irrigation audit or field inspection

• To have addressed any current leaks, breaks, or deficiencies in your irrigation system

This information not only strengthens your application, it highlights your professionalism and commitment to responsible sports field water management.

Complete the Application Thoroughly

Once you’ve gathered your data, it's time to complete the application form provided by your local authority. Follow the irrigation variance instructions carefully, and don’t leave sections blank.

Attach any relevant documents, including:

• Field usage schedules

• Safety reports or injury concerns due to dry/hard fields

• Smart irrigation technology or efficient watering strategies  you've implemented

Pro tip: Frame your request in terms of safety, sustainability, and water conservation. You’re not just trying to water more, you’re trying to protect athletes, preserve public investment, and do it all with as little water as possible.

Communicate Proactively with Water Officials

Once submitted, stay in contact. Don’t wait to be chased down for missing documents or clarifications. Respond quickly, offer site visits if appropriate, and keep all stakeholders in the loop, especially facility administrators or athletic directors who may need to advocate on your behalf.

Building a cooperative, transparent relationship with your purveyor now will make it easier to renew or adjust your variance in the future.

Field Safety, Liability, and Playability

A dry, stressed field isn’t just an eyesore, it’s a player safety hazard. Hard, under-irrigated surfaces increase the risk of concussions, ankle injuries, and lawsuits.

As a field manager or administrator, irrigation variances allow you to balance compliance with safety while maintaining playable sports fields under restricted watering. Variances aren’t about avoiding rules, they’re about ensuring the health and longevity of a heavily used athletic asset within a sustainable, approved framework.

Want more strategies for keeping your fields healthy during drought? Check out our article How to Manage Athletic Fields During Local Water Restrictions for practical tips on irrigation, soil health, and cultural practices.

You Can’t Afford to Wait

Applying for an irrigation variance can feel bureaucratic, but it’s a powerful tool for responsible turf managers. With the right preparation and mindset, you can navigate the process successfully, and:

• Keep your fields green, safe, and playable

• Demonstrate efficient irrigation practices

• Protect athletes and public investment

Ready to Protect Your Fields?

Don't let another dry week go by without a plan. Call your local water provider today to ask about irrigation variance options in your area.

Or, if you want help preparing your application, reach out to our team. We've supported many facilities through the process and know how to make your case clear, compelling, and built around smart watering use for athletic fields.

Let’s keep your field green, safe, and playable all summer long!