Wayland Enacts Water Ban On Non-Essential Uses

WAYLAND, MA — Wayland is reminding residents of a town-wide water ban amid the ongoing heat wave.

The ban on nonessential water use went into effect on May 1 and could last until Sept. 21. Residents may not use water for activities like washing cars, using lawn sprinklers and washing buildings and sidewalks.

Disobeying the water ban could mean a $100 fine for the first offense and $200 for the second, according to the town.

Wayland's water ban was declared on May 1, when the eastern half of the state was in a level one mild drought. Significant rain events since then have improved drought conditions to normal, according to the state Drought Management Task Force. Level one drought conditions still persist in all parts of the state from Worcester County west to the New York border.

Natick has also declared a water ban, that town's is linked to PFAS chemical contamination, which Wayland is also experiencing. Natick has turned off a main water source due to the chemicals, leaving less water available for nonessential activities.