Record dry weather and drought conditions have led to new mandatory water conservation measures throughout Thousand Oaks. The growing demands for water as well as environmental concerns in the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta are restricting the ability to transport water.
The City has released a Public Service Announcement in regards to this new restriction. In addition, a "Water Conservation Hotline" has been established for residents to report excessive water use at 805-375-5747.
Below are some common questions and information regarding water conservation. For specific questions about the Ordinance or water conservation programs, contact the City of Thousand Oaks Public Works Department at (805) 449-2400.The Metropolitan Water District of Southern California is the wholesale water supplier for most of Southern California and has prepared an ordinance for all of their member agencies to adopt thereby establishing consistency in conserving water for millions of residents and businesses.
- Watering is prohibited between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m.
- Watering duration is limited to no more than fifteen minutes per day per station
- No excessive water flow or runoff is permitted
- No washing down hard or paved surfaces
- Leaks, breaks or malfunctions must be fixed within 7 days of receiving notice
- Re-circulating water required for decorative water fountains and features
- Washing vehicles, other than at commercial car wash facilities, must be done with a self-closing shut off nozzle on the hose
- Drinking water in food establishments served only upon request
- Lodging establishments must provide guests options to decline daily linen services
- Single pass cooling systems may not be installed
- Non-re-circulating commercial car wash and laundry systems are prohibited in new systems. Effective 1/1/2010, ALL commercial conveyor car wash systems must have installed operational re-circulating water systems.
- Restaurants are required to use water conserving dish wash spray valves
6) Is this all there is to the new Water Conservation Ordinance?
In addition to the permanent mandatory measures, there are three increasingly restrictive levels. By resolution, the City Council can declare a particular level based on water supply. 7) What happens if Level 1 is declared?Level 1, in fact all levels, expand upon the basic permanent measures. For example, watering days will be limited to three times a week and during November through March twice a week; leaks will need to be fixed within 72 hours of notification.Level 2 limits watering days to twice weekly and once weekly during November through March; leaks will need to be fixed within 48 hours of notification. Filling or re-filling ornamental lakes or ponds with potable water is prohibited except to the extent needed to sustain aquatic life of significant value. Re-filling of more than one foot and initial filling of residential swimming pools or outdoor spas with potable water is prohibited.Level 3, also referred to as an "Emergency" condition, prohibits all watering (health & safety exceptions listed in Ordinance); leaks will need to be fixed within 24 hours of notification. The City may discontinue water service to those who willfully violate provisions of Level 3.8) Why is Level 1 in effect?Calleguas Metropolitan Water District, the regional wholesaler of Thousand Oaks water, has established a water supply allocation program mandated by the Metropolitan Water District of Southern California. The City has to reduce its water usage by 15%; otherwise, it may pay a $4 million penalty!9) What two days of the week may I water?The two days of the week are not specified; we're confident that residents and business owners will do the right thing.10) Does the Water Conservation Ordinance have anything to do with my monthly water consumption?No, the Ordinance is not based on consumption; it requires common sense measures to save water.11) How will this Ordinance be enforced?The Ordinance will primarily be enforced through public outreach and education./kh
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