HOME LAWN IRRIGATION DURING DROUGHT CONDITIONS

This publication is designed to help homeowners manage their lawn irrigation during the different stages of water rationing. Following is a list of water rationing stages from the many different programs in use throughout the state. Each water district adopts a rationing policy based on its individual situation. However, most rationing programs are very similar. For tips on establishing a water management program, refer to the stage in this publication that most closely resembles the defined stage in your local district.

Stages of Water Rationing

Stage I

Usage of water for outdoor purposes such as lawns, gardens, car washing, etc. will be restricted to one of the following:

1. Alternate Day Use - Customers with even-numbered addresses may use water outdoors on even-numbered days and customers with odd-numbered addresses may water outdoors on odd-numbered days. (When there are no addresses, North and West sides of streets: even days; South and East sides of streets: odd days.)

2. Restricted Hours of Use - Outside watering is allowed daily only during periods described in the customer notices.

3. Every Five Day Use - Customers whose addresses end in 0 and 1 may use water outdoors on the 1st day of the month; 2 and 3 - on the 2nd; 4 and 5 - 3rd; 6 and 7 - 4th; 8 and 9 - 5th; 0 and 1 - 6th.... and so on. The utility must provide a calendar noting the respective watering days and the order should remain consecutive as new months begin.

Stage II

Use of water for outdoor purposes such as lawns, gardens, car washing, etc. will be restricted to once a week. Weekly rationing based on home address. Watering with a hand-held hose with manual valve is permitted only after 8 p.m. and before 10 a.m.

Stage III

All outdoor water usage is prohibited except by hand held hoses with manual valves. Water usage for livestock is exempt.

Stage IV

All outdoor water usage is prohibited; livestock may be exempted by the utility.