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PU - Water Conservation

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1. Who do I call to report a water violation?

Contact the Water Conservation Office; the Water Waste Hotline is (505) 955-4222.

2. What are the Sangre de Cristo Water Division hours?

Monday – Friday
8:00 am – 5:00 pm

3. Which days are allowed for outdoor watering?

Currently days of the week outdoor watering restrictions are not in effect. You may choose the best day or days to water. Most low water use plants only require supplemental water once or twice per week. Adjust water frequency and duration according to weather and time of year.

4. Am I allowed to water during the day?

Outdoor irrigation is prohibited between 10:00 am - 6:00 pm. This restriction is in effect May 1st through October 31st.

5. Am I allowed to wash my car at my house?

You can wash your car at your home. Vehicle washing is limited to once per month, per vehicle. The use of a positive shut-off nozzle is required.

6. Am I allowed to hose off or power wash my driveway or sidewalk?

Using water to clean hard surfaces with a hose or power washer is prohibited (e.g. driveways, sidewalks, parking lots, outdoor eating areas).

7. What is fugitive water?

Fugitive water is water that has escaped or flowed from one property onto adjacent property or the public right-of-way. Fugitive water is the most common water violation.

8. What are the fees for a water violation?

1st violation: $20
2nd violation: $50
3rd violation: $100
4th and additional violations: $200

9. How often are Hotel/Motels allowed to change the sheets and towels?

Lodging facilities can not change the sheets and towels more than once every four days for guests staying more than one night.

10. Are restaurants allowed to serve water?

All public and private eating establishments provide water only on request.

11. Is my business required to post water conservation signage?

Yes, public, semi-public, and governmental entities are required to post city approved water conservation signage in restroom and shower facilities. The Water Conservation Office offers the signs free of charge and they may be picked up at the Sangre de Cristo Water Division located at 801 W. San Mateo Road. Contact the Water Conservation Office at (505) 955-4225.

12. Who do I call to report water violations in the City parks?

Contact the Parks Division at (505) 955-2100.

13. Do I have to leave my name and phone number when I report a violation?

It is not required that you leave your personal information. However, there may be times when an Enforcement Officer will need more information about the violation. As the complainant if you choose to leave you information it will always be kept confidential.

14. How are water violations enforced?

Enforcement Officers respond to all complaints. For all complaints, the first step is to verify that a violation exists. Secondly, the Enforcement Officer must see the violation to issue a citation.

15. Am I allowed to plant a Kentucky Bluegrass lawn?

Turf grass, sod or turf grass seed mixes planted within the City limits should not contain more than 25% Kentucky bluegrass. Warm season grasses are recommended for most turf applications.

16. Do I need a permit to install an irrigation system?

A permit is required for all new irrigation system installations. A permit is required for major renovation of existing irrigation systems, which includes the installation of backflow prevention devices and the installation of additional zones.

17. Where do I apply for an irrigation permit?

At the City's Planning & Land Use Department located inside City Hall at 200 Lincoln Avenue. Contact the Planning & Land Use Department at (505) 955-6571

18. Do I need a backflow prevention device for my drip system?

A Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC) approved backflow prevention device is required for all irrigation systems connected to the city water system including existing irrigation systems.