Folsom officials report that “Folsom Lake, our primary water source, is now at 22 percent capacity, a near record low. “This low water level, combined with critically dry weather conditions, necessitates immediate action to conserve water and protect our water supply.”
Mandatory water use restrictions for businesses and residences limit landscape watering to two designated days per week; prohibit washing of parking lots, street, driveways or sidewalks; and prohibit use of City water for construction purposes without approval.
“During cold winter months, landscapes need very little water, making this an easy time of year to achieve significant water savings,” says Marcus Yasutake, Environmental & Water Resources Director. “Approximately 60 percent of the water used by a typical Folsom family is directed to landscape. We’re encouraging residents to turn off sprinklers to conserve water. An added benefit will be significant savings on water bills.”
Those who choose to water are restricted to two days per week and asked to avoid excessive watering that runs off onto sidewalks, street and gutters.
Residents with street numbers that end in an even number water on Wednesday and Sunday. Those with street addresses that end in an odd number may only irrigate on Tuesdays and Saturdays. No irrigation is permitted on Mondays, Thursdays and Fridays.
“Our goal is to gain compliance through voluntary cooperation,” says Yasutake. “We are taking all reasonable measures to assure that our water customers are aware of these restrictions and believe they will do their part to use water wisely.”
City officials are slashing water usage for Landscape and Lighting districts, local parks and City property, and will continue to monitor and correct any overflow problems on public property.
Folsom Water Warning Restrictions
- Limit landscape watering to two days a week (with the exception of drip irrigation, which may be conducted any day). Customers with even street number water on Wednesday and Sunday; those with odd street number water on Tuesday and Saturday. No watering allowed on Monday, Thursday and Friday.
- Avoid excessive watering that runs off onto sidewalks, streets and gutters.
- Washing of streets, parking lots, driveways, sidewalks or buildings is prohibited except as necessary for health, sanitation or fire protection.
- No City water will be used for construction purposes such as dust control, compaction or trench jetting unless approved by the Environmental and Water Resources Director.
The City’s water conservation specialists offer assistance to help residents conserve water. Free consultations may be scheduled by calling (916) 355-7252. To report a water service problem or water break emergency after business hours or on weekends and holidays, call (916) 985-4848.