Vacaville implements Stage 2 water conservation measures

The City of Vacaville says it is moving forward with Stage 2 of its Urban Water Shortage Contingency Plan, which will limit how residents can use water on and around their property.

The announcement was made in a social media post over the weekend. No reason was given for the city moving forward with water restrictions, but it comes as environmentalists say the state is in a prolonged period of drought that could reduce water supplies if proactive measures are not taken.

As part of the Stage 2 measures, Vacaville residents living north of Interstate 80 in the 95688 ZIP code will be allowed to water their lawns on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, while residents living south of the freeway in the 95687 ZIP code will be allowed to water on Tuesdays, Thursday and Saturdays. Watering is allowed on those days beginning at 6 p.m. through the overnight hours and into the following day at 10 a.m. No lawn watering will be allowed between Sunday at 10 a.m. and Monday at 6 p.m.

The city is also banning residents from using hoses to wash down sidewalks, driveways, walkways and parking lots, unless they are doing so to remove hazardous materials that could cause a public safety or health issue.

Car washing is allowed, but only if a person uses a shut-off nozzle. Fountains may continue to operate if they are equipped with a recirculating water pump.

Residents or businesses who violate the city's water restrictions face potential fines up to $500 for each incident. Citizens are encouraged to report water-wasters by calling 707-469-6400 or by e-mailing sourcecontrol@cityofvacaville.com.