Denver Water recommends waiting until after the last freeze, typically around May 5, to turn on your sprinkler system. According to Denver Water, Colorado will likely have at least one more night of temperatures below 30 degrees, which can damage automatic sprinkler pipes above or below ground leading to costly repairs and wasted water. Denver Water recommends keeping the sprinklers off for a bit longer. That does not mean it’s too early to water at all. During warm, dry periods, Denver Water recommends rolling out the garden hose and a hand nozzle and hand-watering trees, perennials and late-fall plantings. “The occasional hand-watering of trees and bushes during a dry fall and winter is good, and especially helpful for newly planted trees, shrubs, plants and grass,” said Greg Fisher, demand planning manager at Denver Water. “A few gallons go a long way this time of year.” If your lawn has brown spots, use water efficiently by hydrating the distressed areas instead of the entire lawn. Just don’t forget to disconnect the hose from the spigot in case freezing weather moves in. Irrigation system leaks can lose as many as 10,000 gallons per month per zone. Aside from the higher bills and wasted water, repair costs can also put a dent in your household budget. If you are concerned about your soil’s moisture, check it by inserting a screwdriver into the ground; if it goes in easily, it’s got enough water. Denver Water’s annual summer watering rules start May 1 and last until Oct. 1. Read more: https://www.9news.com/article/weather/weather-impact/sprinklers-watering-rules-weather-springtime/73-059926ed-0f14-43b6-b88e-bea4ac762650