Norton Residents Warned Of 'Critical Water Levels'

NORTON, MA — Citing "critical water levels" approaching in the town, Norton is reminding residents that strict outside water restrictions will be enforced this summer.

"The town restriction does not allow the connection of any automatic-type sprinkler to the municipal water system," the town's water commission said in a letter to the community. "Currently, the town does allow the use of 'hand-held hoses' for lawn watering and gardens.

"We anticipate an additional ban will be put in place against all outside water usage should we see the drought and significant water use continue."

The town said the level of enforcement has varied from year to year, with implementation of the restrictions based on storage tank levels, water availability, drought conditions and projected weather patterns.

This year, department employees are patrolling the town to enforce the sprinkler restrictions and remind residents of the bylaws.

Fines for violating the water order start at $150 per infraction.

"The last thing our department wants to do is to fine violators or shut the water off," Norton water officials said. "We ask that you please continue to conserve water and refrain from any further outside water use that isn't absolutely necessary."