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Austin to enter stage 2 drought restrictions
The city of Austin will enter stage two drought restrictions next week. This comes as lake levels continue to drop, threatening the cities water supply.
AUSTIN, Texas - The ongoing drought is forcing the City of Austin to move into Stage 2 water restrictions.
The move comes as Lake Travis and Lake Buchanan water levels continue to drop.
The new restrictions will begin Tuesday, August 15.
Under Stage 2 restrictions:
- 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 says it will investigate 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.