Spring water restrictions in effect

By Jeff O'Brien

Tuesday, March 3, 2009 | midnight

The Southern Nevada Water Authority's spring water restrictions went into effect on March 1 for residents and businesses in Las Vegas, Henderson, North Las Vegas and Boulder City.

To maintain a healthy landscape and avoid water waste fines, property owners should only water on their three assigned watering days.

Watering groups A, C and E can only water on Monday, Wednesday and Friday. Watering groups B, D and F can only water on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday.

Property owners can determine their watering group by visiting www.snwa.com or www.changeyourclock.com.

The current schedule runs until May 1, at which time the summer watering schedule will take effect, said J.C. Davis, spokesman for the Southern Nevada Water Authority.

"We'd like 100 percent compliance, but we have been very happy with the community's response," Davis said. "We're not asking them to do anything that is going to hurt their landscape. Watering three days a week is plenty for this time of year."

Drip irrigation systems may be used any day of the week, but drip irrigation usage cannot exceed three days a week. Hand watering and supervised testing of an irrigation system are allowed any day of the week.

Before any fines are issued, homeowners and businesses first get a warning, Davis said.

Fines vary based on jurisdiction, but the Las Vegas Valley Water District imposes a fine that starts at $80 and can go as high as $1,200 per violation. The city of Henderson's Department of Utility Services imposes a $40 fine that doubles after each violation, said spokeswoman Kathleen Richards.

Davis said the Southern Nevada Water Authority has a team of water waste investigators that conducts patrols.

"Most of our violations are called in by neighbors," Davis said. "Fortunately, very few people give us major issues. The vast majority of water waste cases are resolved before we even give a fine."

Jeff O’Brien can be reached at 990-8957 or jeff.obrien@hbcpub.com.