Mandatory 21% Conservation Requirement Dropped By T.U.D.

Sonora, CA — Citing that water supply has increased compared to the past few years, T.U.D. is eliminating the mandatory 21% conservation requirement placed on customers.

However, customers must still follow the State Water Resources Control Board conservation requirements. Things prohibited are listed below:

1) The application of potable water to outdoor landscapes in a manner that causes runoff such that water flows onto adjacent property, non-irrigated areas, private and public walkways, roadways, parking lots, or structures;

2) The use of a hose that dispenses potable water to wash a motor vehicle, except where the hose is fitted with a shut-off nozzle or device attached to it that causes it to cease dispensing water immediately when not in use;

3) The application of potable water to driveways and sidewalks;

4) The use of potable water in a fountain or other decorative water feature, except where the water is part of a recirculating system;

5) The application of potable water to outdoor landscapes during and within 48 hours after measurable rainfall;

6) The irrigation with potable water of ornamental turf on public street medians; and

7) The irrigation with potable water of landscapes outside of newly constructed homes and buildings in a manner inconsistent with regulations or other requirements established by the California Building Standards Commission and the Department of Housing and Community Development.

The decision to drop the conservation mandate was made at Tuesday’s Board meeting.

On a related note, T.U.D. still offers a toilet rebate program. It is designed to assist homeowners and businesses with costs related to the replacement of out-of-date and high water using toilets. If your house was built before 1992, and the toilet uses 3-gallons of water per flush, you may be eligible for a $45 rebate. Contact T.U.D. for more information.