WORCESTER—The state has declared a Level-2 Significant Drought for Central Massachusetts, a designation that triggers new water restrictions across Worcester that went into effect Sept. 9.
The declaration came from the Commonwealth’s Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA) and its Drought Management Task Force. “Effective Sept. 9, 2025, the Commonwealth’s Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA), Drought Management Task Force declared a Level-2 Significant Drought for the Central Region of Massachusetts,” the city release, which was issued Monday, said.
Under Level-2 rules, all nonessential outdoor water uses are banned. Exceptions are limited to watering ornamental plants and flower gardens with drip irrigation, hand-held hoses, or watering cans.
Golf courses face further restrictions. According to the city’s announcement, “Irrigation of fairways shall be reduced to 60% normal, and there shall be no irrigation of roughs, landscaping, and ornamentals.”
Officials said more information on the drought designation will be posted at worcesterma.gov/dpw/drought. Residents with questions about restrictions can contact Worcester 311 at worcesterma.gov/311.
