As a result of steadily decreasing water levels in the James River, the City of Richmond Department of Public Utilities (DPU) Director Chris Beschler announced effective today the implementation of mandatory water conservation measures for all City of Richmond water customers. This follows the recent announcement of new rates intended to encourage conservation.

From a city press release:

In accordance with the City’s James River Regional Management Plan, the trigger level for mandatory conservation measures is 750 cfs (cubic feet per second).

“This is a critical time for everyone to do their part to conserve water,” said Beschler. “All of us are the trustees of our environment, and we must take every step possible to conserve water for the sake of our community.”

This declaration applies to the City of Richmond, along with the counties of Chesterfield and Hanover.

With the water conservation rate implemented by Richmond’s Department of Public Utilities, which went into effect July 1, 2008, DPU water customers who use more than 140 percent of their normal winter water usage (water consumed during December, January, and February) will pay a higher commodity rate on their excess usage.

Penalties for violators during mandatory conservation measures within the City of Richmond include a written warning for the first offense and fines for additional offenses ranging from $50 to $100 for residential customers and $100 to $200 for commercial customers. Extreme violators of mandatory water restrictions may be charged with a third class misdemeanor.

Established Landscape & Gardens
* Monday – no watering.
* Odd property addresses water Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday.
* Even property addresses water Wednesday, Friday and Sunday.
* (Odd/even designation is determined by last digit of address number)

New Landscape
* Unrestricted for first 10 days after planting, then limited to the “Established Landscape and Gardens” measures

Ornamental Fountains
* Use is prohibited of any ornamental fountains where the water is sprayed strictly for ornamental purposes and whose supply comes from the City water system.
* This restriction does not apply to ornamental fountains that utilize recycled water. However, refilling them with City water is prohibited.

Fish Pond Aerators
* Unrestricted because their use sustains aquatic life by adding dissolved oxygen to the water.

Vegetable Gardens
* Limited to any two days per week between 8 p.m. and 10 a.m. Bucket watering is unrestricted.

Paved Areas Washing (Streets, Drives, Patios, Walks, etc.)
* Washing is prohibited except for immediate health and safety concerns.

Vehicle Washing (Commercial Businesses Exempt)
* Limited to one day per week using a hand-held watering hose with an automatic shut-off nozzle.

Golf Courses (Greens Exempt)
* Restricted to 6 days per week between 8 p.m. and 4 a.m.

Businesses/Restaurants
* Limited to essential uses. Provide water only upon request.

Power Washing (Commercial Businesses Exempt)
* Operation is prohibited.