From the State Water Board:
Important Cannabis Cultivation Water Use Reminders
No Surface Water Diversions
With California facing a severe drought this year, the Water Boards would like to remind cultivators that between April 1, 2021 and October 31, 2021, no surface water may be diverted for cannabis cultivation. Only previously stored water or groundwater sources can be used for cannabis irrigation at this time. Violations may lead to formal enforcement proceedings and fines.
Prior Approval of Alternative Sources of Water
Cultivators may be investigating the use of alternative water sources such as bulk water hauling. As a reminder there are additional requirements when using alternative sources of water such as bulk water hauling for cannabis cultivation. The California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) must approve of all water sources being used for cannabis cultivation activities prior to use as well as any additions or changes to sources. CDFA also requires approval of any water hauling service before any water is delivered and used for cannabis cultivation activities. Cultivators who use an unapproved water source or an unapproved water hauling service may face CDFA fines and disciplinary action, such as license revocation.
Required Documentation of Water Sources
In addition to having prior approval of sources, cannabis cultivators who are receiving deliveries of non-potable water from a bulk water hauler are required to keep receipts for at least five years that show the date of delivery and the name, address, license plate number, and license plate issuing state for the water hauler; copy of proof of the Water Hauler’s water right, groundwater well, or other authorization to take water, and the location of the water source; and quantity of water delivered or picked up from a water source, in gallons. Failure to have this documentation may lead to formal enforcement proceedings and fines.
More information
If you are looking for additional information related to cannabis cultivation, please visit our Cannabis Cultivation Program webpage. You may file complaints regarding illegal water hauling activity and unregulated cannabis cultivation through our CalEPA Environmental Complaint website.
