BELCHERTOWN, Mass. (WGGB/WSHM) - The Belchertown Water District has been patrolling neighborhoods as a Level 2 drought remains for much of the state.

People have been experiencing sunshine and sweat throughout Western Mass., but if you want to cool off in Belchertown, your options are limited as a water ban remains in effect.

Signs are posted around town and social media posts are reminding residents that the town has been under a water ban since September 2025 under regulations set by the Department of Environmental Protection.

All non-essential water usage like watering your lawn, irrigation, washing you car, and even filling up your pool is strictly prohibited and there’s no end in sight.

Residents like Brittany Oppenheimer are finding this regulation to be pretty inconvenient, yet she understands the reasoning behind it.

“I mean, it bothers me a little,” she said. “It would be nice to fill up a pool or get a little wet or something, but, it doesn’t bother me overall as long as I have something to drink.”

The Belchertown Water District said the ban is completely up to the state and the Environmental Protection Agency, however, they are strictly enforcing it. Not only do they patrol neighborhoods, but they’ll field complaint calls from neighbors as well.

First, they will leave a tag hanging on your door warning you that they are aware of excessive water usage. Then, if they catch you again, they will shut off your water and you’ll have to pay a $100 fine to get it back.

If you live in Belchertown and have any question or concerns, you’re encouraged to reach out directly to the water district.

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