Union County is implementing Stage 1 of its Water Shortage Response Plan due to worsening drought conditions across the southeastern United States. In coordination with regional partners in the Catawba-Wateree Drought Management Advisory Group (CW-DMAG), County Manager Brian Matthews has directed staff to move from Stage 0 to Stage 1, effective today, Tuesday, April 21, 2026.  

“We’ve been monitoring drought conditions with the hope that the spring season would bring much-needed rainfall, but conditions continue to worsen not only here in North Carolina, but throughout the southeastern United States,” said Brian Matthews, County Manager. “It’s important that all customers remain mindful of the need to conserve water, particularly during extended periods of drought.”  

The last time Union County implemented Stage 1 conditions was in 2023.  

Union County practices water conservation year-round, and water use restrictions for residential customers remain the same under both Stage 0 and Stage 1 of the Water Shortage Response Plan. Customers must limit irrigation to three days per week in accordance with the schedule available at UnionConserves.com. Residents are encouraged to remain mindful of their water usage and prepare for the possibility of additional restrictions if drought conditions persist.  

Stage 1 includes one additional mandatory requirement for commercial and industrial customers: water withdrawn from County hydrants must not be transported outside of Union County for any use other than emergency fire protection or bona fide farm use. Hydrant water may only be accessed through the County’s Bulk Water Program.  

Union County Water urges all customers to take action now by adopting the following voluntary conservation measures:  

• Install flow-restrictive, water-saving devices;   
• Turn off faucets while shaving, brushing teeth or washing dishes;   
• Take shorter showers instead of baths when possible;   
• Run dishwashers and washing machines only with full loads.   
• Repair leaks in faucets, toilets and other equipment promptly;   
• Reuse household water for plants when possible.  

More water conservation tips and a video to help you find and repair leaks in your home are on UnionConserves.com. 

As drought conditions may change, customers are encouraged to visit our website to view the current stage of water restrictions for details and any associated restrictions.   

Union County water restrictions apply only to customers served by Union County Water. Some residents receive water from private wells or municipal systems and should consult their provider for applicable restrictions. County regulations do not apply to private well water.  

Continued dry conditions could require the County to implement Stage 2 water restrictions, which we last saw in 2009.