California Adopts Emergency Water Conservation Regulations

On July 15, the California State Water Boards passed Resolution No. 2014-0038 to adopt urban water control regulations. These regulations are aimed at conservation for urban residents, providing fines for using water inconsistent with the conservation measures. Among the measures aimed at curbing water use, the Water Board has proposed restricting activities on individuals including:

(1) The application of potable water to outdoor landscapes in a manner that causes runoff such that water flows onto adjacent property, non-irrigated areas, private and public walkways, roadways, parking lots, or structures;

(2) The use of a hose that dispenses potable water to wash a motor vehicle, except where the hose is fitted with a shut-off nozzle or device attached to it that causes it to cease dispensing water immediately when not in use;

(3) The application of potable water to driveways and sidewalks; and

(4) The use of potable water in a fountain or other decorative water feature, except where the water is part of a recirculating system.

Performing any of the above activities subjects the offender to civil fines or criminal penalties (as a criminal infraction), punishable by a fine of up to five hundred dollars ($500) for each day in which the violation occurs.

Additionally, urban water suppliers and public water suppliers are required to implement water restrictions on outdoor irrigation of ornamental landscapes or turf with potable water. Under the restrictions, ornamental landscaping and turf cannot be irrigated for no more than two days per week.

The regulations are planned to take effect on August 1, 2014 following review from the Office of Administrative Law, and the restrictions will be active for a period of 270 days (nine months), unless water availability conditions change.

As the drought in the Western US continues, communities can expect to see more of these types of water control regulations moving forward.

For more information, see the California Water Board’s Media Release.