Mandatory Water Rationing Still In Effect For Most Of Metro OKC

Mandatory water rationing is still in effect for much of the metro even though lake levels are up.

Oklahoma City and neighboring communities using the city's water supply are restricted to odd -even watering schedules. If you live on the odd side of the street, water on odd days. If you live on the even side, water on even days. Any other time you must hand water, or the city says expect to get a fine.

Ellen Baker and her husband say there is something more odd than even about the city's water conservation program.

"I would expect a warning and then if I didn't comply a citation, I mean that should be the way it works," Baker said.

Instead, Baker says she received a $119 fine for watering the yard on the wrong day. She claims the city did not make it clear that water restrictions were still in place after the recent rains.

Debbie Ragan with Oklahoma City's Utility Department says that's not the case. Back in April, a permanent water conservation program was put in place and warnings were used until June.

For the first offense the city will fine you $119 plus $83 in court fees. If you are caught watering on the wrong day again, the tickets will be more than $300, and the third time, the cost goes up to $600.

The Bakers do not mind conserving, but say they have to know the rules before they can comply.

We checked and the city has issued approximately 550 citations. So it's a good idea to double check your sprinkler system setting so you don't get slapped with a fine.

OKC shares water with several neighboring cities, which are required to follow OKC's watering program.