Last checked: October 24, 2026. This page summarizes public City of Schertz information. It is not legal advice. Check the linked sources for the current rules.
Quick answers
- Where does Schertz water come from? The City says it has received its water from the Carrizo Aquifer since March 2003, not the Edwards Aquifer that many nearby cities rely on.
- Is Schertz under drought stages right now? The City's Water Conservation page says the Carrizo Aquifer is not under Stage 1, 2, 3 or 4 restrictions, but a year-round conservation plan applies. Check the page for the current status.
- Year-round rule: outdoor sprinkler watering is prohibited from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. every day. Handheld hoses and drip irrigation can be used at any time.
- Draining a pool: discharges are generally not allowed unless the water is dechlorinated to less than 1 ppm chlorine or drained through your own yard without crossing onto the neighbor's property. Notify Public Works at (210) 619-1800 at least one business day before you drain.
- If drought stages are declared: the City's drought contingency plan limits pool filling in the higher stages. Read the current plan before filling a new or empty pool during a declared stage.
Before you drain or refill
- Stop adding chlorine and let it drop, or neutralize it, before draining. Test so you know it is below 1 ppm.
- Plaster and fiberglass pools can be damaged if left empty, especially when groundwater is high. Have a plan to refill the same day if you can.
- Acid washing and many stain treatments need a drained pool. See pool acid wash in Schertz.
- A green pool can often be cleared without draining. See green pool cleanup.
Neighbors on the Edwards Aquifer
Many nearby San Antonio-area utilities draw from the Edwards Aquifer, which has its own critical period stages. Today's stage is posted by the Edwards Aquifer Authority. If you live in Cibolo, Universal City, Selma, Converse or Garden Ridge, check your own water utility's rules. They may differ from Schertz.
Official sources
- City of Schertz: Water Conservation
- City of Schertz: Water & Wastewater Utility (pool draining requirements)
- City of Schertz: Drought Contingency Plan (2025, PDF)
- Edwards Aquifer Authority: Critical Period Management (current stage)
Request a Free Quote
Prefer to talk? Call (830) 358-4406.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drain my pool into the street in Schertz?
Generally no, unless the water is dechlorinated to less than 1 ppm chlorine. Otherwise drain it through your own yard without crossing onto the neighbor's property, and notify Public Works at (210) 619-1800 one business day ahead.
Can I fill my pool during water restrictions?
It depends on the stage. Schertz's drought plan limits pool filling in higher stages. The City says the Carrizo Aquifer is not currently under staged restrictions, so check the Water Conservation page before you fill.
When can I water my yard in Schertz?
Year-round, sprinkler watering is prohibited from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Handheld hoses and drip irrigation can be used any time.
Can you drain and refill my pool?
Yes. Draining is part of an acid wash or a major cleanup. Call (830) 358-4406 and we'll plan it around the city's rules.