Read the ordinance (Section 36-84).

Effective August 1997, a rain sensor set at a quarter inch is required on all automatic irrigation systems. A rain sensor is a device mounted in an open area outdoors and wired to the common wire of your irrigation system. The rain sensor will then override the irrigation controller when adequate rainfall has occurred. Taking this step will keep your system from watering in the rain. Irrigation systems installed before August 1997 are also required to have a rain sensor.

Permits are not required to install rain sensors.

The goal of Cary's water conservation program is to educate customers on the benefits saving this finite resource. Town staff is available to answer questions about rain sensors.

Violations

• Violators receive an oral or written notice of violation. 
• Repeat residential offenders can receive civil penalties of $100 for the first day of the offense, $250 for the second day, $500 for the third day, and $1,000 for each day thereafter that the violation continues. 
• Non-residential customers found in violation of the Rain Sensor Ordinance can receive civil penalties of $250 for the first day of the offense, $500 for the second day, $1,000 for the third day, and $2,000 for each day thereafter that the violation continues.

Contact
311 or (919) 469-4000 outside Cary