Voluntary Water Restrictions Lifted for Baltimore Region Following Record Rainfall
Restrictions End for Residents Served by Public Water Supply in Baltimore City, Baltimore, Harford, Howard, and Carroll Counties
The Baltimore City Department of Public Works (DPW), in coordination with Baltimore County, Harford County, Howard County, and Carroll County, has lifted the voluntary water restrictions issued on May 8, 2025, for residents who are served by the local public water supply. The restrictions were initially implemented due to historically low water levels at Liberty Reservoir, one of the region’s primary drinking water sources.
Thanks to record-setting rainfall in May—the wettest May since 2018—water levels at the Liberty, Loch Raven, and Prettyboy reservoirs have significantly recovered to near-normal levels. The increased inflow has restored water levels to near-normal seasonal conditions, prompting the removal of voluntary restrictions across the region.
“The Baltimore region once again stepped up for the greater good. I want to thank everyone who made adjustments to help protect our water supply,” said DPW Director Khalil Zaied. “Let’s continue to be good stewards of our environment and keep these conservation habits going strong to alleviate any future strains on our system.”
At Liberty Reservoir, water levels had dropped to their lowest level in nearly 20 years, prompting DPW to take proactive steps. Operational changes at the Montebello and Ashburton Water Filtration Plants reduced the draw from Liberty and increased reliance on the Loch Raven Reservoir. Voluntary water restrictions were needed across the entire service area, including Baltimore City and the surrounding counties, to support water conservation.
“I sincerely want to thank the residents of Baltimore City and the surrounding counties who responded to our call to conserve water,” said Steve Sharkey, interim head of the Bureau of Water and Wastewater. “While the restrictions are no longer needed, water is a vital and limited resource. We must continue to practice water-efficient habits every day to ensure our water supply system remains resilient for the future.”
Even with conditions now improved, DPW emphasizes the importance of responsible water use year-round. Conserving water helps safeguard the region’s long-term supply and can reduce water bills.
Everyday Water-Saving Tips:
- Delay lawn and garden watering when possible
- Turn off the tap while brushing teeth or shaving
- Fix leaks in faucets, toilets, hoses, and sprinklers
- Run dishwashers and washing machines only with full loads
- Sweep driveways and sidewalks instead of using a hose
- Water plants during early morning or evening to reduce evaporation
Baltimore City water customers are also encouraged to use DPW’s Self-Service Water Bill Portal to track real-time water usage and better manage monthly bills.
