MAITENANCE
Smart Irrigation A Proactive Approach to Water Efficiency for Apartment Communities
BY DIANA FIORE
Managing apartment communities along Colorado’ s Front Range requires balancing curb appeal with sustainable water practices. With the region’ s semi-arid climate, unpredictable weather patterns, and increasingly strict water-use regulations, property managers must adopt smart irrigation strategies to stay compliant, control costs, and maintain vibrant landscapes year-round.
SMART IRRIGATION TECHNIQUES FOR EFFICIENCY
Smart irrigation systems are essential for navigating new water regulations. Unlike traditional timers, these systems automatically adjust watering schedules based on real-time data, significantly reducing water waste. Drip irrigation further enhances efficiency by delivering water directly to plant roots, minimizing evaporation.
Zoned irrigation customizes water output based on plant type and sunlight exposure, ensuring each part of the landscape receives the right amount of moisture. Regular maintenance— such as checking for leaks, clogs, and malfunctioning sensors— is vital for optimal performance and continued compliance.
COLORADO’ S CHANGING WATER REGULATIONS
Starting January 1, 2026, new statewide laws will reshape landscape irrigation for new developments and redevelopment projects. House Bill 23-1161 mandates that all new irrigation controllers be WaterSense-certified, using weather data and soil moisture sensors to optimize efficiency.
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At the same time, Senate Bill 24-005 bans the installation of“ nonfunctional turf”— ornamental grass not used for recreation— in new development projects on commercial and institutional properties. These laws reflect a growing statewide push for sustainable landscaping and climate resilience.
SMART IRRIGATION FOR APARTMENTS: PROACTIVE BENEFITS
Although these bills don’ t directly apply to multi-family residential properties, adopting smart irrigation systems now can position apartment communities ahead of potential future regulations. By reducing water usage, smart irrigation helps properties stay ahead of changing legislation, lower utility costs, and improve property appeal while remaining compliant with evolving standards.
ADDITIONAL LANDSCAPING CONSIDERATIONS
Beyond irrigation, selecting native and drought-tolerant plants significantly reduces water needs and supports xeriscaping, which is encouraged by local and state regulations. Ground covers, mulch, and permeable paving also help retain moisture, reduce runoff, and further conserve water.
LONG-TERM ADVANTAGES
Adopting smart irrigation systems and sustainable landscaping practices not only helps properties comply with current and future regulations but also lowers maintenance costs, ensures healthier landscapes, and boosts resilience to climate extremes.
As Colorado continues to tighten its water-use laws, properties that embrace water-efficient strategies will not only stay compliant but also demonstrate leadership in environmental responsibility and operational efficiency.
RESOURCES FOR FURTHER LEARNING:
Property owners should stay informed and consult local building codes to ensure compliance with evolving water-use standards. Municipalities may have additional requirements or incentives for water-efficient irrigation systems in development projects.
Diana Fiore is Director of Business Development at ALC Property Maintenance.
21 | TRENDS JULY 2025