City: Obey Sprinkler Rules or Ban May Be Needed

City water utility officials Friday urged residents to follow the even-odd outdoor sprinkling rules and time restrictions, saying high water usage could force a sprinkling ban.

"This is critical for the City water utility to be able to maintain enough water in the system for potable water needs and fire protection services," the utility said in a new release issued by Public Works Director Tom Grisa. "Your cooperation and adherence to these rules is appreciated.

"If water use continues at such a high level the City may be forced to impose a complete ban on sprinkling," the release said, adding that violations will result in citations.

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Outdoor sprinkling is allowed by properties with even numbered addresses on even numbered days of the month and by properties with odd numbered addresses on odd numbered days of the month before 9 a.m. and after 6 p.m. on the designated day.

City officials asked property owners to adjust automatic sprinkler systems to run on those dates and times.

There are some sprinkling activities, however, that can be done at any time on any day, if needed: 

• hand watering of newly established lawns, shrubs, or trees
• golf courses that draw water from on-site retention ponds
• children running through sprinkler to cool off on hot day