What does a 20% mandatory reduction in water use mean?

Overall, as a community, we need to reduce water use by 20%. The mandatory 20% reduction over 2020 levels in water use is a collective, community-wide, target and not necessarily an individual target. Individual water customers are asked to conserve water, comply with mandated restrictions, take advantage of the City of Santa Rosa’s water conservation rebate programs, and eliminate and report water waste. Water waste, like leaks and breaks or overspray from irrigation are always prohibited per our long-standing Water Waste Ordinance.  

The following prohibitions and restrictions are in place as a result of the institution of Stage 3 of the Water Shortage Contingency Plan: 

  • Landscape irrigation is strictly limited to the hours of 8 p.m. to 6 a.m.
  • Water waste due to breaks, leaks, or excess use is prohibited. This includes leaking faucets, toilets, and appliances, as well as broken irrigation pipes, leaking irrigation valves, and broken sprinkler heads, and runoff from properties due to overwatering or misdirected sprinklers. Report water waste at www.srcity.org/waterwaste  
  • Using potable water for washing hard surfaces (e.g., sidewalks, driveways, and patios) is prohibited, unless required for public health and safety.
  • Hose-end shut-off nozzles are required for all hoses.
  • Restaurants may only serve water upon request.
  • Hotel and lodging establishments must message about the drought, including laundering of linens only upon request. 
  • Pressure washing with potable water (except for public health and safety) is prohibited unless a variance is obtained from the Water Department. 

Show All Answers

1. What does a 20% mandatory reduction in water use mean?
2. What is the 20% reduction target timeline compared to?
3. Why do we continue to allow new building and development during a water shortage?
4. Does the City of Santa Rosa provide water to wineries and other agricultural interests?
5. How do I request an exemption or variance from a water use prohibition or restriction?
6. How is the City of Santa Rosa responding to the regional drought emergency?
7. How do I cut back my water use if I'm already efficient with my water use?
8. What is considered efficient water use?
9. How can I figure out how much water I use?
10. Is the City of Santa Rosa enforcing any water use prohibitions?
11. How does the City enforce the prohibition on water waste?
12. How do I report water waste?
13. Is washing cars at home allowed?
14. How will my water bill be affected by the drought?
15. What resources are available to help me reduce my water use?
16. What will happen if we do not get rain this coming winter?
17. How are other cities affected by the current drought?
18. Where can I find additional information?