AUSTIN, Texas — Austin Water says that Stage 1 water restrictions are now in effect throughout the city.
The City’s water utility says the return of drought, sustained triple-digit heat and the combined storage level of water in Lake Travis and Lake Buchanan dropping below 1.4 million acre-feet are factors in the decision.
Failing to follow the water restrictions may result in enforcement action, including fines of up to $500 per violation. To report violations, call 3-1-1, use the 3-1-1 mobile app, or submit a report online. Please provide the address, time, date, and type of violation.
Below are the guidelines for Stage 1:
You may water only on your assigned day(s) and times.
Residential
- Hose-end Sprinklers - two days per week - midnight to 10 a.m. and/or 7 p.m. to midnight
- Automatic Irrigation - one day per week - midnight to 8 a.m. and/or 7 p.m. to midnight (Residential customers may also water a second day with a hose-end sprinkler)
- Commercial / Multi-family / Public Schools
- Hose-end Sprinklers or Automatic Irrigation - one day per week - midnight to 8 a.m. and/or 7 p.m. to midnight
- Wasting water is prohibited
- Washing vehicles at home is permitted with an auto shut-off hose or bucket
- Charity car washes may only be held at a commercial carwash
- Fountains must recirculate water
- Restaurants may not serve water unless requested by a customer
- Patio misters at commercial properties (including restaurants and bars) may only operate between 4 p.m. and midnight
- Commercial power/pressure washing equipment must meet efficiency requirements
EXEMPTIONS
The following are allowed at any time on any day of the week:
- Watering with drip irrigation, a hand-held hose or a refillable container
- Watering trees with a Treegator®, soaker hose or automatic tree bubbler
- Watering vegetable gardens with a soaker hose
- Pressure washing sidewalk/driveway/deck/patio/paved areas/home siding/fence