Only water if you need to, rather than on an automatic routine. Manually turn on sprinklers when the lawn is truly in need of water and leave them off during rainy seasons. Many local grass varieties naturally turn brown during low water periods as a survival technique that you don't need to fight. Allowing the water to soak in this deep will allow the turf to develop deep roots which will help it survive dry spells much longer. Adjust irrigation time to suit your soil.
Clay soils dry out between waterings slower than sandy soils.
Irrigation time length will also vary. Because water is more likely to run off clay soils and sloping lots, irrigate slowly to prevent fertilizers and pesticides from washing into the storm drain. If water starts running off your yard before it soaks in deep enough, try stopping the sprinkler and waiting an hour or two before starting it up again. Water when soil is almost dry. Aerate your lawn to reduce compaction and increase water and oxygen to the soil.