CVWD will fine water wasters to meet drought restrictions

The Coachella Valley Water District, or CVWD, decided Tuesday people who do not cut their water use to meet the state’s requirements will pay a penalty.

Heather Engel, Director of Communication and Conservation for CVWD, said the fines will be tailored to how much water people use.

“We’re not asking every customer to do the exact same thing,” explained Engel. “But, we’re asking our customers to keep their water use 36 percent below their water budget.”

According to Engel, CVWD determines one’s ‘water budget’ based on the size of the property, the weather and the number of people in a home.

The penalties will not take effect until July. They will apply to homeowners and business owners. The program is designed to encourage conservation and pay for additional conservation programs to reduce water use. Before CVWD penalizes customers with a fine, it will first issue a written warning. The second violation will cost $50, the third will cost $100 and the fourth will cost $200.

Some people already do their part to save water.

“They’re going to be rewarded they’re not going to be penalized for those who are already 36% below their water budget,” added Engel.

CVWD will not restrict when people choose to irrigate.

“A lot of water districts have decided to adopt limits to when people can irrigate,” said Engel. “CVWD decided to let them make their own decisions about the best way to reduce water use.”

The water district cut water use by 4 percent in March. In April, that number increased to 14 percent.

In addition, CVWD adopted the following water-use restrictions Tuesday that go into effect immediately:

-Application of water to outdoor landscaping during and within 48 hours after measurable rainfall is prohibited.

-Irrigation of ornamental turf on public street medians is prohibited.

-Broken sprinklers shall be repaired within 24 hours of notification and leaks will be repaired as soon as practical.

-The serving of drinking water other than upon request in eating or drinking establishments, including but not limited to restaurants, hotels, cafes, cafeterias, bars, or other public places where food or drink are served and/or purchased is prohibited.

-Hotels and motels shall provide guests with the option of choosing not to have towels and linens laundered daily. Hotels and motels shall prominently display notice of this option in each guestroom using clear and easily understood language.

-Applying 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.

-Applying water to any hard surface including, but not limited to, driveways, sidewalks, and asphalt is prohibited.

Exceptions to the above restrictions are available when an immediate health, safety or sanitation need exists.