Stage 2 drought restrictions in Corpus Christi substituted the more stringent Stage 3 drought restrictions starting last week — but what does that mean for residents?
Relief to lawns, for one.
As of Aug. 11, Lake Corpus Christi was nearly 92% full, and Choke Canyon Reservoir nearly 25% full, according to city data.
That puts the combined capacity of the two at about 43%.
With replenished water reserves, Stage 3 drought restrictions — which prohibited all lawn watering — transitioned to Stage 2 last week. Here’s a rundown of the rules for outdoor water use, as shown in city documents.
Sprinklers and other irrigation systems
Sprinklers and other irrigation systems can be used for outdoor watering one day every other week, only between the hours of 6 p.m. and 10 a.m.
The day allowed is determined
by the city.
Information on watering days for individual properties can be found at stage2.corpuschristitx.gov under the watering schedule button.
The schedule includes a map graphic of which day of the week is the designated day for watering in certain areas, as well as a calendar showing the weeks allowed.
Watering by hand
Hand-watering with a hose, bucket, watering can or bucket is allowed on any day of the week, every week.
The hose must have a positive shut-off nozzle and the bucket must be 5 gallons or less.
Watering is only permitted between the hours of 6 p.m. and 10 a.m.
Watering foundations
Watering building foundations is permitted every other week on the same day designated for lawn watering.
Vehicle washing
Washing any vehicle, including motorbikes and boats, is allowed any day of the week, any week.
Either a handheld hose or bucket must be used.
The handheld hose is required to have a positive shut-off nozzle, and the bucket can be no more than 5 gallons.
Pools
Water can be used to fill swimming pools to ensure equipment maintenance.
City officials recommend that pools be covered unless they are being used.
Additives can also be used to curb water loss through evaporation.
Citations
Enforcement of the drought restrictions remains in effect under Stage 2 rules.
A fine of as much as $500 can be assessed for violations, such as lawn watering with sprinklers on a day that is not designated under the schedule.
Exemptions
Exemptions to the watering rules can be requested.
Some examples of exemptions that may apply include new plantings and food gardens.
Corpus Christi Water must approve the applications.
More information on exemptions is available by calling 361-826-1600 or visiting CCW’s “drought information” site.
Kirsten Crow covers city government and water news. Have a story idea? Contact her at kirsten.crow@caller.com.
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This article originally appeared on Corpus Christi Caller Times: Want to water your lawn under Stage 2 restrictions? Here are the rules
