Burlington Coronavirus: Water Ban Anticipates Staff Shortage

BURLINGTON, MA — The Burlington Board of Selectmen approved a full outdoor watering ban on March 23 because of staffing concerns during the new coronavirus outbreak. The ban started on Wednesday and is set to run until October 31.

The town has banned the use of sprinklers or automatic irrigation systems on lawns and water to establish a new lawn or planting in any way.

According to the town's statement, although Burlington is set to join the Massachusetts Water Resource Authority for supplemental water, the process is not complete. Until then, Burlington must continue to operate two 24-hour water treatment facilities.

"Reductions in personnel during the COVID-19 Global Pandemic will force us to reduce staffing and shifts at the two treatment facilities" the statement said. "Due to those anticipated personnel shortages, the Town cannot operate both treatment facilities 24 hours a day and therefore very likely cannot supply enough water to meet the usual demand during the warm weather months."

With the ban, restrictions used during fall will remain in place. Some water use is still allowed including:

• Watering gardens, flowers and ornamental plantings with a hand-held hose.
• Using water to meet core functions of a business or commercial activity.
• Washing building exteriors, parking lots, driveways and sidewalks in order to apply surface treatments, like paint, stucco or cement.