Water is a precious resource, and the world is waking up to the growing problem of water scarcity. Communities and ecosystems everywhere are feeling the effects. Places like Los Angeles face unique challenges due to ongoing drought and environmental concerns.
That’s where water restrictions come in. These measures help manage our water supply during shortages. We’ll explore water restriction policies, taking Los Angeles as our case study, and discuss what they mean for you and me.
Emergency Water Conservation Plan Ordinance and Phased Restrictions
Many municipalities have legal frameworks in place to manage water use during periods of shortage. In Los Angeles, this framework is known as the Emergency Water Conservation Plan Ordinance.
The ordinance establishes a tiered system, or series of phases, that dictate the severity of water restrictions. As water shortages become more acute, the city moves into progressively more restrictive phases.
Currently, the City of Los Angeles is in Phase 2 of its water conservation plan. The restrictions put in place during Phase 2 are designed to help the city manage its water resources responsibly. (We’ll go into more detail on the specific restrictions in the next section.)
Watering Days & Restrictions
Many municipalities place restrictions on outdoor watering, especially during dry spells. Here are some common regulations:
Specific Watering Regulations
- Designated Watering Days: Often, the day you’re allowed to water depends on the last digit of your street address. So, for example, even-numbered addresses may be allowed to water on Tuesdays and Saturdays, while odd-numbered addresses can water on Wednesdays and Sundays.
- Time of Day Restrictions: Many cities limit the times of day when you can run your sprinklers. In some areas, watering with sprinklers is limited to one cycle of up to 8 minutes per station on your assigned watering day if you have a standard sprinkler system. If you’ve upgraded to a system with water-conserving nozzles, you may be able to run your sprinklers for two 15-minute cycles.
- Prohibited Activities: Generally, you’re not allowed to waste water by hosing down hard surfaces like sidewalks and driveways.
Best Practices for Efficient Watering
- Hand Watering: If you’re just spot-watering, use a hose with a self-closing nozzle so water isn’t running continuously.
- Leak Repair: Fix leaky faucets and sprinkler heads as soon as you notice them.
- Vehicle Washing: If you wash your car at home, be sure to use a self-closing nozzle on your hose.
Fines and Enforcement
If you don’t follow the water restrictions, you’ll be fined. The amount depends on the specific violation, the phase of restriction in place, and the size of your water meter. In general, fines range from $100 to $600.
Keep in mind that these fines usually increase with each repeat violation.
If you see someone violating the water restrictions, you can report it to the city.
What if I can’t comply?
If you can’t follow all the water restrictions, you may be able to get a variance or find another way to comply.
Applying for a variance
If following the restrictions would cause you undue hardship, you can apply for a variance.
To apply, you’ll need to contact the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power and explain your situation.
Alternative compliance methods
If you have a large landscape area, like a sports field or park, you may be able to use other methods to comply.
These methods are designed to fit your specific needs, letting you use water wisely while keeping your landscape healthy. In other words, you may be able to irrigate less often, but for longer periods, or use a smart irrigation system that adjusts watering based on weather conditions.
Water efficiency standards and retrofit requirements
Many municipalities have put ordinances in place to encourage water conservation. These ordinances often target plumbing fixtures and landscaping. Here are some common types of restrictions:
High-efficiency plumbing fixture ordinance
These ordinances require new or retrofitted water-using fixtures to meet certain efficiency standards.
Citywide water efficiency standards ordinance
Existing buildings and landscapes must meet certain requirements for water efficiency.
Retrofit on resale ordinance
Before closing escrow, all residential and non-residential real property sold must meet certain water efficiency standards.
Putting It All Together
As we’ve discussed, water restrictions can include limits on watering lawns, washing cars, and filling swimming pools. These measures, while sometimes inconvenient, are essential for managing our water resources.
Community participation is crucial. Water restrictions only work if everyone does their part to conserve. By making small changes in our daily habits, we can collectively make a big difference.
Ultimately, water restrictions play a vital role in promoting long-term water sustainability. By using water wisely today, we can help ensure that future generations have access to this precious resource.