Coachella Valley updates conservation measures

In response to new drought regulations adopted by the State Water Resources Control Board, the Coachella Valley Water District (CVWD) is updating their conservation measures. CVWD customers will be required to comply with the state’s regulation and are encouraged to increase their water conservation efforts.

The regulation requires water agencies to activate “Level 2″ of their Water Shortage Contingency Plans, which assumes up to a 20% water shortage, which the CVWD Board of Directors adopted at the June 14 Board meeting.  CVWD had previously implemented Level 2 and Level 3 actions (April 12, 2022), in anticipation of potential emergency requirements from the state that are outlined in the District’s Water Shortage Contingency Plan.

Level 2 mandatory water conservation actions effective June 14

• Outdoor water use for spray irrigation is prohibited during daylight hours except to check for leaks.
• Restaurants can only serve water upon request.
• Overseeding is discouraged.
• Water Waste patrols will be increased.

CVWD will prioritize working with customers to quickly resolve violations. After a written warning, customers may be responsible for fines on their bill starting at $50. The goal is to eliminate water waste and save water for future generations.

State ban on watering non-functional turf as of June 10

• Irrigation of non-functional turf is prohibited at commercial, industrial and institutional sites including HOAs.
• Non-functional turf means turf that is solely decorative. It does not include areas that are used for recreation or civic community events or turf areas with trees.
• Fines up to $500 per day may be imposed.