
Phase III watering restrictions: Just the FAQs, ma’am
January 16, 2008Phase III watering restrictions are in effect. Here are some answers to some Frequently Asked Questions.
QUESTION: When can I water my newly planted landscaping and sod?
Answer: New plantings, sod or landscaping in place for 30 days or less can be watered:
- From 2 a.m. to 8 a.m., Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays, on properties less than five acres in size. Irrigation is not permitted on Fridays.
- From 12:01 a.m. to 8 a.m. on Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays on properties more than five acres in size. Irrigation is not permitted on Fridays.
New plantings, sod or landscaping in place for 31 to 60 days can be watered:
- From 2 a.m. to 8 a.m. on Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays, on properties less than five acres in size. Irrigation is not permitted on Tuesdays or Fridays.
- From 12:01 a.m. to 8 a.m. on Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays, on properties more than five acres in size. Irrigation is not permitted on Tuesdays or Fridays.
These rules permit new landscape watering only. Homeowners should keep documentation on any new landscaping, such as a dated receipt of purchase, in case they are required to provide proof of the installation date.
QUESTION: I water my lawn from a well, canal, pond or surface lake. Do these restrictions apply to me?
Answer: Yes. Surface and groundwater sources are connected. Water in lakes and canals helps to protect private and public wells from saltwater intrusion, and helps store rainfall to recharge wells and aquifers.
QUESTION: Can I hand-water my lawn?
Answer: Yes, you can hand water stressed plants and existing installations for 10 minutes per day using a single hose with an attached automatic shut off nozzle. New installations are not subject to this 10-minute rule, although voluntary watering reductions are encouraged.
QUESTION: What other low-volume watering methods are allowed?
Answer: Drip, bubble and micro-jet systems that apply water directly to root plant zones may be used at any time. However, a voluntary reduction in use is encouraged and any low-volume system should not produce water runoff. Watering cans are also low-volume and can be used anytime.
QUESTION: When can I wash my car or boat?
Answer: Anytime. Vehicle washing is not restricted. When washing a car, best water conservation practices are to park it over a non-paved or porous surface to limit water runoff, and always attach an automatic shut-off nozzle to your hose. Best water conservation practices are to limit boat rinsing to 15 minutes after it has been in saltwater.
QUESTION: My organization is scheduling a fundraising car wash. Do we need to apply for a variance?
Answer: No. There are no restrictions on vehicle washing. Best water conservation practices are to always attach automatic shut-off nozzles to hoses and, if possible, channel runoff water to a grassy area or porous surface.
QUESTION: When can I use a pressure washer?
Answer: Anytime. Pressure washing is not restricted. Best water conservation practices are to use low-volume equipment that produces water pressure of 1,000 pounds per square inch to 4,000 pounds per square inch. Channel runoff water onto the grass or another non-paved surface.
QUESTION: Is there some way I can get permission to change my watering day or times?
Answer: Yes. You may apply for a variance from water restrictions. However, you must demonstrate a hardship in complying with the restrictions and certify that you will implement an alternative method for achieving the target cutbacks.