Mission Springs Water District announces water restrictions

At a meeting on Monday, Aug. 18, the Mission Springs Water District Board of Directors adopted Ordinance 2014-01 and Ordinance 2014-02 to comply with the State of California Water Resources Control Board water conservation requirements. Effective immediately, residents within the boundaries of MSWD are to comply with the following:

(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 is prohibited .

(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 that causes it to cease dispensing water immediately when not in use is prohibited.

(3) The application of potable water to driveways, sidewalks, gutters, roadways, concrete surfaces, asphalt surfaces or other impermeable surfaces is prohibited.

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

(5) Watering lawns, grass, or turf is prohibited between the hours of 10:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m.

The Ordinance also gives the Board latitude to add restrictions as necessary. Exceptions for public health and safety are incorporated to cover such activities as sand and dust control, and maintenance of the water system.

MSWD General Manager Arden Wallum stressed that the objective of the measure is to educate residents and change behavior, not to penalize. The Board adopted a schedule of civil penalties consisting of a written warning, followed by a $100 surcharge applied to the water bill for noncompliance, and a second surcharge of $200 and/or installation of a flow restrictor for a third violation. Subsequent violations will result in water service shutoff.