On June 8, 2022, Paramount City Council approved the implementation of Stage 2 of the City’s Water Shortage Contingency Plan, which requires the following water conservation efforts to be adopted effective June 10, 2022:
- Limits on watering days for landscaped areas
- April – October, 3 days per week: Monday, Thursday, and Saturday
- November – March, 2 days per week: Monday, Thursday
- Customers must fix repairs in a timely manner (72 hours)
- No excessive water flow or run off
- No washing down hard or paved surfaces
- Restrict water use for decorative water features
- Use only recycled water for construction activities
- Restaurants may only serve water upon request
- Washing vehicles only allowed with an automatic shutoff nozzle
- Approximate Percentage Reduction of 20%
Also the emergency drought regulations prohibit the use of potable water for the irrigation of non-functional turf at commercial, industrial, and institutional properties. Non-functional turf is defined as turf that is solely ornamental and not regularly used for human recreational purposes or for civic or community events.
Progressive enforcement of these rules will begin with warning letters for residents and mandatory water use audits for large commercial or institutional properties. Violators may face fines of up to $500 per day. Residents are encouraged to read the full water conservation policy.
Agencies and homeowners associations are prohibited from penalizing residents whose decreased water usage results in brown lawns.
Paramount residents who want to take practical steps toward water conservation may consider implementing the following practices into their routine:
Indoor Conservation Tips
- Fix leaks promptly.
- Install high-efficiency toilets, high-efficiency washing machines, aerators on bathroom and kitchen faucets, and water-efficient shower heads.
- Defrost food in the refrigerator instead of under running water.
- Use dishwashers and washing machines with full loads only.
Outdoor Conservation Tips
- Plant drought-tolerant/resistant plants and trees.
- Recycle indoor water to use on plants.
- Refrain from watering your home landscape when it rains.
- Water outdoor landscaping earlier in the day when temperatures are cooler to prevent
For other water conservation tips visit saveourwater.com and bewaterwise.com. To stay up-to-date with drought conditions and resources, check out the U.S. Drought Monitor and USGS.
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