Oklahoma City Implements Progressive Outdoor Watering Conservation Program

On Tuesday, City Council approved progressive water conservation measures for all Oklahoma City residential and commercial water customers. Stage 1, Mandatory Odd/Even Watering, has been in place since January 17, 2013 and remains in effect until further notice.

Stages will be triggered according the capacity of all six lakes. Stages 1 through 3 are based on the last number of the building address.

1/12/2013 Related Story: Mandatory Water Rationing Goes Into Effect In Norman On Monday

The past two years have taken a toll on all Oklahoma lakes, including Oklahoma City's six water supply reservoirs. Climatologists predict the drought will continue through the summer of 2013. This means it's more important than ever to use water wisely.

Other cities that use Oklahoma City water are required to abide by the same program, unless a similar or stricter program is in place. City Council also approved an amendment to the municipal code for restrictions on use of water. The amendment establishes new penalties for violations of water use restrictions. Penalties for failure to comply are increasing fines of $119, $269 and $519. A cross-divisional enforcement team will issue citations.

"It's unlikely that anyone in the Oklahoma City metro is unaware of the drought situation at this time," said Marsha Slaughter. "It's not our intention to penalize our customers for using water. We just need everyone to know how serious this year's drought likely will be. We all want nice landscaping. It's possible to do so and still use water wisely."

To help convey that message and to help customers rethink the way they use water outdoors, the Utilities Department partnered with the OSU Extension Service, Horticulture and Landscaping Architecture Department. Dr. Justin Moss, assistant professor, and his staff are promoting proper outdoor watering and drought-tolerant landscaping. They are conducting workshops and will speak to neighborhood associations and organizations upon request and availability. Dr. Justin Moss can be reached at 405-744-5729 or justin.moss@okstate.edu.

Stage 1 Mandatory Odd/Even Lawn Watering

Last number of the building address - 1, 3, 5, 7, 9 - water odd number days

Last number of the building address - 0, 2, 4, 6, 8 - water even number days

Stage 2 2-day-Week Lawn Watering

Single-family resident address ends in odd number– Saturdays & Wednesdays

Single-family resident address ends in even number – Sundays & Thursdays

All others – Tuesdays & Fridays (duplexes, triplexes, homeowner association properties, commercial, industrial, government)

Stage 3 1-day-Week Lawn Watering

Single-family resident address ends in 1 or 3 – Saturday

Single-family resident address ends in 5, 7 or 9 – Wednesdays

Single-family resident address ends in 0 or 2 – Sundays

Single-family resident address ends in 4, 6 or 8 – Thursdays

Duplexes, triplexes, homeowner association properties – Tuesdays

Commercial, industrial, government, etc. – Fridays

Stage 4 Hand Watering Gardens & Flower Beds Only

Commercial Car Washes with Water Recycling Operations Only

Stage 5

Ban on all Outdoor Watering & Washing Vehicles