(Austin)—The combined storage level of water in Lakes Travis and Buchanan has dropped below 900,000 acre-feet and Austin’s Stage 2 watering restrictions are now in effect and enforceable. Austin Water is following its Council-approved Drought Contingency Plan that was developed with community input. Austin’s drought stage restrictions are more stringent than restrictions enacted in many other neighboring communities.
 
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 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.
 
Customers with questions about these new rules should contact WaterCon@austintexas.gov. For complete details about the Austin Water drought response, visit austinwater.org.