Public Works Current Water Restrictions
- Water Restrictions FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
- Water Conservation Tips
July 8, 2010 - This notice serves as a reminder that the odd/even irrigation schedule for all Apex water customers adopted by Town Council in 2008 remains in effect and is enforceable year-round. Although the Jordan Lake water supply levels are currently adequate even in this dry period, the Town closely monitors these levels and will implement more restrictive measures as necessary. Apex water customers may irrigate lawns and/or landscapes three days a week according to the schedule below.
The Town continues to encourage water conservation and the odd/even schedule helps facilitate this especially when reasonably implemented by water customers. The Town will closely monitor water supply levels and will implement more restrictive measures later in the year if necessary.
Since 2008, Town of Apex water customers have only been allowed to irrigate lawns and/or landscapes three days a week according to the following schedule:
- Addresses ending with 1, 3, 5, 7, 9 - Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays
- Addresses ending with 2, 4, 6, 8, 0 - Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays
Lawn irrigation is not allowed on Mondays. Hand held hose watering is allowed everyday. Apex water customers may obtain a 45-Day New Landscape Permit from Public Works at 105 Upchurch Street to allow for irrigation of new plantings including large commercial plantings or the installation of new sod or seed to a bare area of more than 50% of the grassed or proposed grassed area of a residential yard. Such a permit will not be granted for over-seeding of established grass.
A written notice will be issued for a first violation of the new mandatory rules. Upon additional observation of violations, the violator will be subject to a civil penalty of up to $1,000 per violation per day. To report a violation, contact the Public Works Department at 249-3427. Please give the address, date and time of the observed violation. Public Works staff will investigate all reports of violations.
The Town of Apex continues to encourage the following voluntary water conservation practices:
- Do not irrigate during the hottest time of the day, as much of the water is lost to evaporation. Early morning or late at night is best.
- Avoid mowing during droughts as it adds stress to grass and is only relieved by more irrigation.
- Limit vehicle washing to a minimum.
- Refrain from washing down impervious areas such as sidewalks, driveways, and patios.
- Refrain from leaving faucets running while shaving, brushing teeth, and rinsing dishes.
- Only run full loads for laundry and dish washing.
- Check for leaks and repair them promptly.
- Check your water meter and bill to track usage. Try to reduce usage each month.
Please do your part to help conserve this precious resource! Remember that every drop counts!
The Town continues to encourage water conservation and the odd/even schedule helps facilitate this especially when reasonably implemented by water customers. The Town will closely monitor water supply levels and will implement more restrictive measures later in the year if necessary.
What is the odd/even irrigation schedule?
Since 2008, Town of Apex water customers have been able to use irrigation systems three days a week. Water customers who have odd-numbered addresses may water lawns and/or landscapes anytime on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday. Even-numbered addresses may water anytime on Wednesday, Friday and Sunday. Lawn irrigation is not allowed on Mondays. Please use the chart below for reference:
| Effective April 1, 2008 | |||||||
|
MON |
TUES |
WED |
THURS |
FRI |
SAT |
SUN |
Odd Addresses |
NO |
Yes |
NO |
Yes |
NO |
Yes |
NO |
Even Addresses |
NO |
NO |
Yes |
NO |
Yes |
NO |
Yes |
*Hand Held Hose Watering is Allowed Everyday* |
|||||||
What if I use a hand held water hose to irrigate my lawn and outdoor plants?
Apex water customers who use hand held hoses will be exempt from the mandatory year-round rules and may water lawns and outdoor plants at any time. However, to remain in compliance, the hose must be held throughout the watering session.
What are the penalties for violating these water restriction rules?
A written notice will be issued for a first violation of the new mandatory rules. Upon additional observation of violations, the violator will be subject to a civil penalty of up to $1,000 per violation per day. To report a violation, contact the Public Works Department at 249-3427. Please give the address, date and time of the observed violation. Public Works staff will investigate all reports of violations.
Is car washing and pressure washing still allowed?
Both vehicle washing and power washing are currently not restricted. If you have a question about the legality of a specific water-using activity, please contact Public Works at 249-3427.
What exception will be allowed for new plantings?
Apex water customers may obtain a 45-Day New Landscape Permit from the Public Works Department at 105 Upchurch Street for the purpose of establishing new plantings. New plantings are defined per ordinance as large commercial plantings or the installation of new sod or seed to a bare area of more than 50% of the grassed or proposed grassed area of a residential yard. Such a permit will not be granted for over-seeding of established grass. The permit will become effective at the requested start date and expire 45 days later.
In addition to complying with the year-round water restrictions, what else can Town of Apex water customers do to help conserve water?
To further help conserve water, citizens can voluntarily limit irrigation and vehicle washing, refrain from washing down impervious areas such as sidewalks and patios, take showers instead of baths, refrain from leaving faucets running, and limit the use of washing machines and dishwashers. For more information on water conservation tips, please visit the Water Conservation section of the Town of Apex website at Water Conservation section.