The Topsfield Water Department has implemented a Mandatory Total Outdoor Use Ban due to a critical drought in northeastern Massachusetts.

All non-essential outdoor water use is prohibited until further notice.  Essentail uses include those uses required to meet a core business function, required by permit or regulation or required for public safety and/or public health.  All other uses are prohibited.  Washing cars, filling skating rinks, etc. are non-essential uses.

The restriction applies to all water users in Topsfield, including private well owners.

In addition to curtailing outdoor use the Water Department encourages the following conservation measures:

• Run your dishwasher and clothes washer only when full.
• Fix any leaks around the house.
• Install water efficient toilets, faucets and shower heads.
• Keep a pitcher of water in the refrigerator, rather than running the faucet.
• Consider replacing water intensive lawns with a xeriscape (low water demand) flower garden.

 Please visit https://www.mass.gov/info-details/drought-status for information about the drought.

The Topsfield Water Department has implemented a Mandatory Outdoor Water Use Restriction effective July 12, 2024 due to very low Ipswich River stream flow, higher than normal water use and concerns about the availabilty of water.

Outdoor water use is restricted to water cans, hand-held hoses controlled by a nozzle, or drip irrigation systems only before 9 AM and after 5 PM.  The use of spray irrigation systems at any time is prohibited.  The restrictions apply to public water customers and private water sources located on parcels served by the Town's water system.

In addition to curtailing outdoor use the Water Department encourages the following conservation measures:

• Run your dishwasher and clothes washer only when full.
• Fix any leaks around the house.
• Install water efficient toilets, faucets and shower heads.
• Keep a pitcher of water in the refrigerator, rather than running the faucet.
• Consider replacing water intensive lawns with a xeriscape (low water demand) flower garden.

The mandatory restrictions will be in effect until further notice but typically run through the end of September. 

October 1st Update: All water restrictions have been removed.