Water Restrictions Upgraded in Westford

Lack of any significant rainfall over the past several weeks and subsequent increased demand has prompted us to reassess our current outdoor water use restrictions.

Accordingly, in an effort to ensure an adequate supply of water for drinking and firefighting purposes, the Westford Water Department is hereby implementing further mandatory outdoor water use restrictions.

Effective immediately and in addition to the current Stage II outdoor watering restrictions, outdoor water use shall be limited to hand held hoses only. The use of sprinklers of any kind is prohibited.

Below is a summary of the outdoor water use restrictions in effect as of today, July 5, 2016 and until further notice:

Odd numbered addresses may water on odd numbered days
Even numbered addresses may water on even numbered days
Watering may occur only between 6:00 pm and 9:00 am
The use of sprinklers of any kind is prohibited – only hand held hoses may be used
These restrictions will be re-evaluated as precipitation and water demand returns to a normal state. In accordance with Westford Town Bylaw Chapter 169. 7 violations of these restrictions are subject to a fine of $50.00 for the first violation and $100.00 for each subsequent violation. In addition, we ask that private wells in use be marked with a “Private Well” sign as they are not subject to these restrictions.
We appreciate your cooperation with these restrictions.

The Massachusetts Drought Management Task Force is scheduled to meet this Thursday (7/7/2016). Guidance or recommendations regarding water conservation measures issued from the Task Force will be considered by the Westford Water Department, and may lead to changes to outdoor water use restrictions.