Travis County judge prohibits car washing services until Feb. 25

AUSTIN, Texas - Travis County Judge Andy Brown has issued an order prohibiting vehicle washing services until Thursday, Feb. 25 due to the low water supply in the county.

Judge Brown is also calling for Travis County residents to conserve water as much as possible.

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"We’re working across the county to ensure water is restored to all of our residents," said Brown. "That is why we’re asking businesses to put their car washing services on hold until we can get this critical water supply to our entire community."

Tens of thousands in Austin without water

Many in Austin are without water after the city's largest water treatment plant lost power. While the plant is back online, there's not exact timetable for when water will be back for all customers. FOX 7 Austin's Tierra Neubaum has details.

Austin Water reminded customers earlier Saturday that the city is currently under a mandatory water restriction in accordance with the Feb. 17 boil water notice. As of the notice, customers may not do any of the following:

Use water for irrigation or testing of irrigation equipment
Wash vehicles, including at commercial car wash facilities
Wash pavement or other surfaces
Add water to a pool or spa
Conduct foundation watering
Operate an ornamental fountain or pond, other than aeration necessary to support aquatic life

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"It is outrageous that at this moment, anyone would be washing a car," said Austin Mayor Steve Adler. "If you see it, call 311 to report. It has been prohibited in Austin with a $250 fine since the water boil notice of February 17. I appreciate County Judge Brown putting his weight behind a prohibition, too."

Violations of these restrictions should be reported to Austin 3-1-1. Residents can also file a complaint with the Travis County Attorney's office by emailing consumer@traviscountytx.gov or calling 512-854-1289.