How do I request an exemption or variance from a water use prohibition or restriction?

The City of Santa Rosa’s Water Shortage Contingency Plan includes an exemption process should you need relief from the prohibitions for health, safety, or other critical factor.  

If a customer or business wishes to request an exemption from a water use prohibition or restriction, the customer must file a request in writing to: 

Deputy Director, Water Resources  

Santa Rosa Water 

69 Stony Circle  

Santa Rosa, CA 95401  

 

The Deputy Director or designee will decide on the matter within 30 calendar days of receiving the request. The request should include: 

  • The prohibition, restriction, or water allocation of concern
  • The street address of the subject property  
  • The water account number 
  • The water customer’s name, phone number, mailing address, and, if available, email address 
  • An explanation of the grounds upon which the request for exemption or allocation reassessment is being requested; for example, grounds might a significant health and safety need that must be met 
  • The specific action the customer wishes the Deputy Director to take 
  • The request must be signed and dated by the water customer 

If a customer is not satisfied with the decision, an appeal may be filed within 30 days of the decision to:  


Director of Santa Rosa Water  

Santa Rosa Water 

69 Stony Circle  

Santa Rosa, CA 95401  


The Director will decide on the matter within 30 calendar days of receiving the appeal. The Director’s decision is final.

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?