What water-use restrictions are in place?

Restrictions vary, depending on the stage of the drought

In Stage 1: 

  • Shut-off nozzles are required on hoses for car washing.
  • Washing hard surfaces, such as power washing a driveway, is prohibited. 
  • Runoff from landscape irrigation is prohibited.
  • Outdoor watering is prohibited within 48 hours of measurable rainfall.  
  • Landscape watering of newly constructed homes is prohibited.
  • Decorative features, such as fountains, must use recirculated water.
  • Customers are required to repair leaks, breaks, and malfunctions in a timely manner. 

 

In Stage 2, earlier restrictions apply, plus: 

  • The use of non-recirculating systems in all new conveyer car wash and commercial laundry systems is prohibited. 
  • The use of single pass cooling systems in new connections is prohibited. 
  • Restaurants may not serve water to customers unless requested.
  • Hotels and motels must offer guests an opt-out option for linen service.
  • Outdoor irrigation by residential and business customers is limited to 1-3 days per week, depending on local ordinances.

 

In Stage 3, earlier restrictions apply, plus:

  • The use of potable water for construction and dust control is prohibited.
  • The use of potable water for street washing is prohibited.
  • The use of potable water for irrigation of ornamental turf on public street medians is prohibited.
  • Filling of ornamental lakes or ponds is prohibited.

 

In Stage 4, earlier restrictions apply, plus:

  • Vehicle washing, except with recirculated water or low-volume systems, is prohibited.
  • Use of water for recreational purposes, such as water parks and the filling of pools, is prohibited.

 

In Stage 5, earlier restrictions apply, plus:

  • Net zero demand increase on new water service connections is required.
  • Single-pass cooling systems are prohibited.

 

In Stage 6, earlier restrictions apply, plus:

  • A moratorium on new water service connections is imposed.
  • All landscape irrigation is prohibited.
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Still Have Questions? | Explore the Conservation FAQ
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