Due to ongoing drought conditions and the need to conserve our precious water resources, the City of Richmond, TX has implemented new water restrictions for 2024. These measures aim to ensure that we have enough water supply to meet essential needs while promoting responsible water usage among residents and businesses.
Overview of Restrictions
Outdoor Watering
- Even Addresses: Residents with even-numbered street addresses can water their lawns and gardens only on Mondays and Thursdays.
- Odd Addresses: Residents with odd-numbered street addresses can water their lawns and gardens only on Tuesdays and Fridays.
- Timing: Outdoor watering is permitted only between 6 AM and 10 AM and 8 PM and midnight to minimize evaporation.
- No Watering on Weekends: Watering is strictly prohibited on Saturdays and Sundays.
Landscape and Garden Guidelines
- New Plantings: Newly planted lawns and landscapes may be watered daily for the first 30 days after installation. Afterward, regular restrictions apply.
- Hand Watering: Hand watering with a hose equipped with a shutoff nozzle is allowed at any time.
- Drip Irrigation: Drip irrigation systems and soaker hoses are exempt from the restrictions and can be used at any time.
Car Washing
- Residential Car Washing: Washing vehicles at home is allowed only on designated outdoor watering days and within the specified time frames.
- Commercial Car Washes: Car washes must implement water-saving techniques and equipment.
Pools and Fountains
- Swimming Pools: Filling new swimming pools is not allowed. Existing pools may only be refilled to replace water loss due to evaporation or maintenance.
- Fountains: Decorative water fountains are prohibited unless they use recycled water.
Additional Measures
- Prohibited Activities: The use of water for washing driveways, sidewalks, and other hard surfaces is prohibited.
- Leak Repair: All leaks, breaks, or other malfunctions in plumbing and irrigation systems must be repaired within 48 hours of detection.
Enforcement
The City of Richmond will actively monitor compliance with these restrictions. Non-compliance may result in fines and penalties:
- First Violation: Warning notice
- Second Violation: $50 fine
- Subsequent Violations: Fines increasing in $50 increments for each additional violation
Community Support
We urge all residents and businesses to adhere to these water restrictions to help our community manage this critical resource responsibly. For tips on how to conserve water or to report violations, please visit our website or contact the Richmond Water Department Office at (281) 342-0559.
Together, we can make a significant difference in preserving our water resources. Thank you for your cooperation and commitment to water conservation.
Learn More About Water Conservation
By following these guidelines, Richmond residents can play a vital role in ensuring a sustainable water supply for everyone. Let’s work together to make 2024 a year of responsible water use and environmental stewardship.