State declares critical drought, Groton bans outdoor water use

GROTON — The Commonwealth of Massachusetts has declared a Level 3 Critical Drought for Groton, triggering an immediate ban on non-essential outdoor water use across town, according to a town announcement posted this week.

TOWN HALL

The town's most pressing news is the drought declaration itself. Officials announced that the Commonwealth has designated Groton at Level 3 Critical Drought status, the second-highest level in the state's classification system, and that non-essential outdoor water use is now banned. Residents should expect enforcement of the restriction and should consult the town's water department for specifics on what activities are covered.

Separately, the town also issued an update on its annual fireworks celebration, though further details of the update were not available in the excerpt provided by the town's website. Residents planning around the event should watch for a fuller announcement from the town.

Also of note for taxpayers: the town's real estate tax demand fee will rise to $30, effective May 1, 2026, under authority granted by Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 60, Section 15, which sets $30 as the state maximum. The fee applies when a tax or excise payment becomes overdue and a formal demand notice is issued.

COMING UP

Residents should watch for additional detail on the annual fireworks celebration update referenced in the town's recent announcements, as well as continued guidance from the Groton Water Department on what qualifies as "non-essential" outdoor water use under the new Level 3 restriction.