New Livermore Water Restrictions In Effect, Penalties Doubled

LIVERMORE, CA — New fines and water restrictions went into effect this week for nearly 60,000 Livermore residents served by California Water Service.

Cal Water moved into Stage 2 of its Water Shortage Contingency Plan Tuesday, which meant new restrictions as Livermore continued to grapple with drought. The Livermore City Council voted to approve the Stage 2 restrictions in September.

Residents can expect the following restrictions.

• Outdoor landscape irrigation is limited to three days per week.
• Odd-numbered addresses can water only on Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 6 p.m. to 8 a.m.
• Even-numbered addresses or addresses without a street number can water only on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday from 6 p.m. to 8 a.m.

Penalties for breaking the rules have doubled. Here are some common violations, according to Cal Water.

• Failing to provide Cal Water with written notification of leaks, breaks or malfunctions in plumbing or irrigation fixtures within five business days.
• Washing cars with a device other than a hose with a shut-off nozzle.
• Using water on driveways or sidewalks, "unless for health and safety purposes."
• Watering outdoor plants during or within 48 hours of measurable rain.
• For restaurants, serving water to customers who did not request it.
• For hotels and motels, failing to provide guests with the option of not laundering towels and linens daily.

Cal Water reminded residents that various conservation programs were available to help Livermore customers save water.