Residents and businesses across metro Atlanta, including Fulton and Cherokee County, are being urged to conserve water as drought conditions continue to affect Georgia and place increased pressure on water supplies.
On Monday, April 27, 2026, the Georgia Environmental Protection Division (EPD) issued a Level 1 Drought Response declaration in response to drought conditions across the state. The U.S. Drought Monitor classifies Fulton and Cherokee County as being in extreme drought. If conditions do not improve, the state may move to a Level 2 Drought Response declaration.
Under a Level 1 Drought Response, water providers are required to inform customers of measures they can take to conserve water. At this time, there are no additional mandatory water use restrictions and no enforcement actions associated with water usage under Level 1.
Outdoor watering is one of the largest drivers of increased water demand during dry conditions. Watering too frequently or during the heat of the day can lead to substantial waste through evaporation and runoff. Outdoor water use between the hours of 4 PM and 10 AM is still allowable and unaffected by a Drought Response Level 1. Public water systems may not impose restrictions on outdoor watering that are different from state requirements unless they obtain a variance from EPD.
The links below offer education, practical tips and actions residents can take to conserve water indoors and outdoors whenever possible.
North Georgia Water - Water Conservation Steps