(Austin)—The combined storage level of water in Lakes Travis and Buchanan is projected to drop below 900,000 acre-feet within the next few days. Austin’s Drought Contingency Plan identifies this as the point at which Stage 2 water conservation measures should be enacted. To give the community advance notice that these new restrictions are coming, and consistent with the City’s Water Conservation Code, Interim City Manager Jesus Garza has ordered implementation of Stage 2 watering restrictions to be effective and enforceable, beginning on August 15, 2023.

“For many years, Austin has leaned into water conservation in normal weather as well as drought,” said Austin Water Director Shay Ralls Roalson. “As our current drought continues, we know that the entire Austin community will respond to the need to conserve our most precious resource. We’re all in this together, and there is no substitute for water.”

Stage 2 Watering Restrictions Summary

• Automatic irrigation and hose-end watering is restricted to one day per week.
• Automatic irrigation runtime is reduced by 3 hours with cutoff at 5 a.m. instead of 8 a.m.
• Water waste is prohibited.
• Restaurants may serve water only upon request.
• Charity car washes are prohibited, and home car washing must use an auto-shut-off valve or a bucket.
• Patio misters at commercial properties, including restaurants and bars, may operate only between 4 p.m. and midnight.
• Large ornamental fountains can no longer be operated.
• New landscape-establishment irrigation is no longer exempt from the watering schedule.

Austin Water will continue its investigations of reported non-compliance received via Austin 3-1-1 and water waste patrols. Failing to follow watering restrictions could result in fines of up to $1,000 per violation. To report a violation, call 3-1-1 or use the 3-1-1 mobile app.

For complete details about the Austin Water drought response, visit austinwater.org.