Water Conservation Tips from Department of Utilities:
Prevent water, as well as your money, from being wasted by turning your irrigation system off when it rains.
Determine how many minutes your system must run to apply at a rate that can be absorbed by the soil without runoff.
Replace broken or missing sprinkler heads, check that rotor-type spray heads are turning properly and adjust heads to avoid throwing water onto the pavement.
Water as infrequently as possible without causing undue stress to your lawn.
Lawns only need to be watered when there are signs of needing water; usually every 5 to 7 days in the summer. Water your lawn slowly, during cool windless periods. Morning hours are most effective.
Apply 1/2 to 1 inch of water slowly enough to avoid runoff and puddles. Soak soil to a depth of 6 to 8 inches.
For garden planning, review concepts of low maintenance landscaping such as using mulch to reduce evaporation. Also, clean out and redirect down-spout gutters toward trees, plants and other landscaped areas. Rainfall will then take care of watering your landscape at no cost.
Remember to use a broom, not a hose to clean your driveway, patio or sidewalk.