Water Conservation

Although many San Mateo County communities are surrounded by water, freshwater that is clean, accessible, and affordable is still a precious resource that needs to be safeguarded in our drought-prone community.

The San Mateo County Sustainability Department is working to protect our water resources through partnerships, innovative technologies, and free resources. Any individual who wants to take action can use simple steps and tools to have a positive impact.

Water Conservation Programs

There are more than 20 different water agencies operating in San Mateo County in addition to private systems and wells. Enter your zip code to learn more about local programs that can help you save water and money.

Check-It-Out! Home Energy and Water Saving Toolkit

Interested in conducting a water audit in your home? The Check-It-Out! Home Energy and Water Saving Toolkit is available for checkout in any San Mateo County library, and it includes tools and freebies such as low flow shower heads and faucet aerators. Learn more about the program.

Leak Detection Pilot Study

The County is partnering with WaterNow Alliance and local jurisdictions to pilot leak detection devices in homes. Leak detection devices are being installed in homes and will be monitored for their effectiveness in detecting active leaks and enabling remote water shut-off, as well as for their impacts on water conservation behavior. Currently, residents in Foster City and Burlingame are piloting this technology. The findings from the study will be helpful in forming countywide efforts on water conservation.

Learn more about the study on the WaterNow Alliance website. The devices for the study are provided by Buoy and Flo; check out their websites to learn more.

Partner Resources

Check out these resources from our partners!

EPA WaterSense labeled products can help you save water in your home, both indoors and outdoors
San Mateo Resource Conservation District provides free, confidential technical assistance to help landowners and land managers manage natural resources. This includes providing resources to help conserve water on residential and agricultural properties
Save Our Water provides quick tips for saving money and water inside and outside of your home

Water-Energy Nexus

When you conserve water, you’re saving energy, too! Our energy and water systems are deeply connected, from the way our resources are produced to how they are distributed.

For example – you can try taking shorter showers, not only helping to save water, but also the energy that it takes to bring it to your tap.

Learn more about your local water system and ways to reduce your use.