by Cheryel Carpenter
May 20, 2005

New requirements for lawn and landscape irrigation in Arlington will take effect on Wednesday, June 1. Except for hand watering and the use of soaker hoses, it is unlawful for any person to irrigate or water, or to cause or permit the irrigation or watering of any lawn or landscape between the hours of 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. June through September.

According to Acting Water Utilities Director Julie Hunt, the new ordinance is part of the City’s effort to meet the requirements of the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality and Texas Water Development Board in planning for Arlington’s growing water supply needs.

“Demand continues to increase as our population grows,” Hunt said. “It is important that we take every opportunity to ensure a plentiful supply of quality water into the future.”

Water demand peaks during summer months. Residential peak usage during the summer is about 2.9 times higher than monthly usage in the winter. Time of day watering restrictions reduce water loss, city officials say. Rates of evaporation due to temperature, wind, and sunlight intensity are generally highest from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. from June through September.

The water conservation ordinance also requires rain and freeze sensors on irrigation systems, so that these systems do not run during rainy or freezing conditions. Sensors must be included on all irrigation systems installed on or after March 4, 2005. By March 4, 2007, all commercial and apartment irrigation systems installed before March 4, 2005, must be equipped with sensors.

The City will use several methods to check for and promote compliance, including public education and warning notifications. However, citations up to $500 may be issued if compliance is not achieved. Acting Neighborhood Services Director Lee Hitchcock said the objective of ordinance enforcement will be to gain compliance, not to punish.

For additional information, go to www.ci.arlington.tx.us/water or call Arlington Water Utilities at 817-275-5931. For tips on reducing water use while maintaining healthy and beautiful landscapes, visit the EPA Water Efficiency website at www.epa.gov/owm/water-efficiency.