Tomball enters Stage 2 drought restrictions amid dry conditions

TOMBALL, Texas -- Tomball residents and businesses are now under mandatory water restrictions after the city moved into Stage 2 of its drought contingency plan Aug. 4.

The city cited increased water demand and continued dry weather conditions for the change. Tomball entered Stage 1 on July 28, when residents and businesses were asked to voluntarily conserve water.

What you need to know

Under Stage 2, automatic irrigation systems and hose-end sprinklers may only be used from 7 p.m.-5 a.m. on designated watering days.

Odd-numbered addresses may water Wednesdays and Saturdays, while even-numbered addresses may water Thursdays and Sundays.

Residents can still use hand-held hoses, buckets or watering cans of 5 gallons or less, and drip irrigation systems at any time.

Vehicle washing and filling or refilling swimming pools are also limited to designated watering days between 7 p.m. and 5 a.m. Commercial car washes and service stations are exempt from the vehicle-washing restriction.

The city is also prohibiting the use of water for ornamental fountains unless needed to support aquatic life or the fountain uses a recirculation system.

Other nonessential uses are prohibited, including washing sidewalks, driveways, parking lots and other hard surfaces; washing buildings except for fire protection; using water for dust control; and flushing gutters.

City officials said the measures are intended to conserve Tomball’s water supply while maintaining enough capacity for everyday use and fire protection.

This article comes from our ABC13 partners at Community Impact Newspapers.