Last year, the State Water Resources Control Board adopted an emergency regulation for water conservation that became effective on July 28, 2014. It required water agencies to implement their Water Shortage Contingency Plan at a mandatory stage that restricts outdoor irrigation. This emergency regulation is set to expire on April 25, 2015, and the State is planning to consider updating and extending the emergency regulation at its March 17 meeting. New water restrictions under consideration include:

• Potable water cannot be applied to outdoor landscapes during and up to 48 hours after measurable rainfall.
• Hotels and motels shall provide guests an option whether to launder towels and linens daily.
• Hotels and motels shall prominently display notice of this option in each bathroom using clear and easily understood language.
• The water agency must limit outdoor irrigation of ornamental landscapes or turf with potable water to no more than two days per week.

If the State Water Board approves these new water restrictions, the regulations will go to the Office of Administrative Law for review and approval. Once approved, the City would have 30 days to implement the new restrictions, which could go into effect as early as late-April or early-May. The City Council would need to approve a resolution implementing these new restrictions in order for the City to be in compliance.