What are the city’s new permanent water conservation measures?

•Watering is prohibited between the hours of 9 a.m. and 5 p.m.

•Watering duration is limited to no more than 15 minutes per day per station

•No excessive water flow or runoff is permitted

•No hosing of hard or paved surfaces

•Leaks, breaks or malfunctions must be fixed within seven days of receiving notice

•Recirculating water required for decorative water fountains and features

•Washing vehicles, other than at commercial carwash facilities, must be done with a self-closing shut-off nozzle on the hose

•Drinking water in food establishments served only upon request

•Lodging establishments must provide guests options so they can decline daily linen services

•Single-pass cooling systems may not be installed

•Nonrecirculating commercial carwash and laundry systems are prohibited in new systems. Effective Jan. 1, all commercial conveyor carwash systems must have operational recirculating water systems.

•Restaurants are required to use water-conserving dish wash spray valves

All water levels expand upon the basic permanent measures. 

Level 1 watering days are limited to an unspecified three times a week currently and twice a week November through March. Leaks need to be fixed within 72 hours of notification.

Level 2 limits watering days to twice weekly and once weekly November through March; leaks need to be fixed within 48 hours of notification. Filling or refilling ornamental lakes or ponds with potable water is prohibited except to the extent needed to sustain aquatic life of significant value. 

Refilling of more than one foot and initial filling of residential swimming pools or outdoor spas with potable water is prohibited.

Level 3, also referred to as an “emergency” condition, prohibits all watering (health and safety exceptions listed in ordinance); leaks need to be fixed within 24 hours of notification. The city may discontinue water service to those who willfully violate provisions of Level 3.

For specific questions about the ordinance or water conservation programs, contact the city of Thousand Oaks Public Works Department at (805) 449-2400.