Watering Schedule
How Restrication Stages Work
Watering restrictions are organized into six stages. Stage 0 is always in effect and applies to customers year-round. Stage 1 through 4 may be added on top of Stafe 0 when conditions require. Each higher stages includes all rules from lower stages unless they conflict, in which case the higher stage governs.
Stages can be declared by two authorities:
- Board of Directors - by resolution, in response to drought or low aquifer levels (long-term hydrologic shortage).
- General Manager - in response to a specific infrastructure failure (e.g., a main break that limits supply). A staff-declared stage expires after 7 days unless the Board extends it by vote.
Year-Round Baseline Rules (Stage 0) - Always in Effect
The following rules apply to all customers throughout the year, regardless of whether a higher stage has been declared:
- Watering hours: Sprinkler irrigation is prohibited between 10AM and 6PM from May 1 through October 15.
- Watering frequency: Sprinkler irrigation is limited to three day per week. Customers may choose which days.
- No runoff: Irrigation that causes water to pool on or flow across streets, sidewalks, or storm drains is prohibited.
- No hosing hard surfaces: Cleaning driveways, sidewalks, or patios with a hose is prohibited.
- Vehicle washing: A positive shut off nozzle is required when washing vehicles or equipment with a hose.
- Leak repair: Known leaks past the meter must be repaired or a repair plan submitted within 14 days. See Leak Repair Regulation below.
- Reporting: Customers may report suspected violations to the District. CMD will investigate all reports.
Violation Penalties
Violations must be observed by a designated District employee or agent. The first offense at any stage results in a written warning. fines for subsequent violations are assessed once per month and added to the customer's water bill. Unpaid fines may result in services disconnected.
Landscape Establishment Permits
Customer installing new landscaping may apply for a landscape establishment permit to water on additional days beyond the stage limit. Permits are available during Stages 1 through 2b only. No permits are issued during Stage 0 baseline conditions, or during Stage 3 or Stage 4. Permits must be displayed visibly at the premises while in effect.
Leak Repair Regulations
Customer-side leaks (past the meter):
- CMD proactively notifies customers of unusually high use that may indicate a like and offers free leak checks upon request.
- If a known leak is not repaired or a repair plan submitted within 14 days or written notice, the District may assess the applicable stage fine.
- If the leak remains unresolved after a further 14 days, the District may disconnect services until the leak is repaired.
Private water main leaks:
- CMD will notify the private main owner immediately by phone, email, or letter upon discovery og a leak.
- If no repair plan is provided withing 72 hours, the District may assess $200 per day until the leak is repaired.
- The District may also hire a contractor to repair the leak and bill the cost to the owner's monthly account.
- If the leak poses an immediate threat to the distribution system or nearby structures, CMD may repair it immediately at the owner's expense.
Dispute Resolution
Any customer disputing a violation notice or charge may appeal to the Customer Service Manager or General Manager with 30 days of the notice or bill date, whichever is later. If the dispute is not resolved at the staff level the customer may appeal to the Board of Directors.