Why Smart Homeowners Are
Ditching Sprinklers

Sprinkler systems lose water to evaporation (especially on hot East Bay summer days), wind drift, and overspray onto hardscapes. Drip irrigation eliminates these losses by delivering water slowly and directly to the soil at each plant's root zone.

Studies show drip systems are 85–95% efficient compared to just 50–65% for traditional sprinklers. That means almost every drop goes to your plants — not the sidewalk.

Sprinklers wet the foliage of plants, creating ideal conditions for fungal diseases like powdery mildew and root rot. Drip irrigation keeps leaves dry and delivers consistent moisture to roots.

The result? Deeper root systems, stronger plants, and dramatically less weed growth. Because water is targeted only to plant bases, weed seeds between plants don't get the moisture they need to germinate.

EBMUD's permanent water-waste rules prohibit irrigation runoff onto sidewalks, streets, or adjacent properties. Sprinklers are the #1 cause of this violation.

Drip irrigation keeps you compliant automatically. Plus, with commercial non-functional turf bans starting in 2027, the trend is clear: efficient irrigation is the future.

EBMUD also offers rebates and incentives for water-efficient landscape upgrades. We'll help you navigate the programs.