Edwards Aquifer STAGE 2 Restrictions Start Today

Stage Two Alert begins when the Aquifer level reaches 650 feet mean sea level at the monitored well.

All restrictions from Stage One remain in effect, unless added to or replaced by Stage Two rules.

Landscape watering with an irrigation system, sprinkler or soaker hose is allowed only once a week from 3-8 a.m. and 8-10 p.m. on your designated watering day, as determined by your address.

Watering with drip irrigation or 5-gallon bucket is permitted any day, but only between 3-8 a.m. and 8-10 p.m.

Watering with a hand-held hose is allowed any time on any day.

Use of fountains, waterfalls, or other aesthetic water features — outdoors or indoors — is prohibited, unless a variance has been granted for 100 percent non-potable water use.

All non-public swimming pools must have a minimum of 25 percent of the surface area covered with evaporation screens when not in use. Inflatable pool toys or floating decorations may be used for this purpose.

Washing impervious cover such as parking lots, driveways, streets or sidewalks is prohibited. Health and safety exceptions to this rule may be requested from SAWS in writing.

Residential washing of vehicles or other equipment is allowed only on assigned watering days and times. A hose with an automatic shut-off nozzle or bucket of five gallons or less may be used. Water should not be allowed to run into the street.

The use of commercial car wash facilities is allowed any day.

Operators of golf courses, athletic fields and parks must submit a conservation plan to SAWS. For requirements, contact SAWS at 704-SAVE. Golf courses, athletic fields and parks may not irrigate between 10 a.m. and 8 p.m.

Hotels, motels and other lodging must offer and clearly notify guests of a "linen/towel change on request only" program.
And don't forget to follow these year-round rules:

Water waste is prohibited at all times. This includes lawn watering overspray and runoff.

Restaurants may serve water only on request (to reduce dishwashing).

Charity car washes allowed only at commercial car wash facilities.