Visit, Learn, and Explore Water-Wise Living
Ride the Wave of Sustainability for FREE
Discover the beauty of sustainable living at The Water Conservation Garden! In San Diego’s dry, Mediterranean climate, water-wise gardening is essential. During special event days, enjoy workshops, partner organizations, and water-wise exhibits that help you improve your individual impact on the planet.
Together, we can protect our precious resources and build a more resilient future.
This public event offers FREE admission for customers of supporting water districts as a way to thank the community for supporting this public resource.
Please register if you plan to attend as this helps with our planning. Must bring proper documentation to receive free entry on this day if not a Garden member.
Residents Eligible for Free Admission on Wave-In Days:
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Helix Water District rate payers and employees
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Sweetwater Authority rate payers and employees
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Otay Water District rate payers and employees
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Grossmont Community College Students and staff (currently enrolled or employed)
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Cuyamaca Community College Students and staff (currently enrolled or employed)
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Garden members always free
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Leashed dogs always welcome
🔍 General Questions
What is the date and time of the Water District Wave-In Day?
9am-4pm on the last Saturday of each month. Starting July 26, 2025.
Is this day open to the general public?
Yes, this day is open to the general public but special free admission is given to JPA member agency contributors-Helix Water, Otay Water, Sweetwater Authority and the Grossmont Cuyamaca Community College District. Garden members are always free.
Do- I need to register in advance, or can I just show up?
Registration is not required, BUT HIGHLY ENCOURAGED, for our staff and volunteers’ piece of mind and planning purposes.
Is this offer valid all day or just during certain hours?
All Day. 9am-4pm. Last entry is 3:15pm.
Can I bring guests or family members with me?
Eligibility extends to all individuals residing at the same address under a single water billing account.
Eligibility also extends to individual students and staff who are currently enrolled in courses at Cuyamaca College or Grossmont Community College. Group entry is not permitted for students or staff.
Is this event rain or shine?
Yes, check social media for extreme weather updates.
📄 Proof of Water Bill Questions
What qualifies as a water bill?
Printed bill, digital bill, utility app screenshot, etc.
What qualifies as a enrolled student?
Student ID of Cuyamaca or Grossmont College.
Do I need to bring the original water bill or is a photo/copy okay?
Digital or photocopy is accepted.
Does the name on the bill need to match my ID?
Yes.
Will you keep a copy of my bill or just check it?
No, we will just check the name on the bill
What if I rent and don’t pay a water bill directly?
Letter from Landlord or Property Manager will suffice. Please make sure your water service area is one of the 3 JPA Members–Helix Water, Otay Water and/or Sweetwater Authority before you plan your trip.
📍 Eligibility/Location Questions
Is this offer only valid for local residents?
Yes, this offer is for rate payers of the following water districts- Helix Water, Otay Water, Sweetwater Authority, and currently enrolled students and staff of the the Grossmont-Cuyamaca Community College District.
What if I use a private well or water service that doesn’t send a bill?
This promotion if valid for current JPA members- Helix Water, Otay Water, Sweetwater Authority, and the Grossmont-Cuyamaca Community College District students (active) and staff. If you are not a rate payer of one these 3 water districts and or a students for the Grossmont-Cuyamaca Community College District. You will be required to pay the normal admission fees. Please see admission prices HERE.
For year round entry, visit our Garden Membership page HERE.
Please email [email protected] will any questions or call our admissions office at 619-660-0614.
Joint Power Authority Members
The Water Conservation Garden is owned and operated by a Joint Powers Authority consisting of public agencies that provide vital funding to support this valuable community resource.
While The Garden relies on admissions and membership to help cover operational costs, we recognize the importance of making it accessible to everyone interested in living more sustainably. That’s why we offer free admission days to ensure broader public access and engagement.