All Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current drought stage?
Currently, all districts within Cal Water’s service areas are in drought Stage 1. Please be sure to continue observing any local ordinances in effect.
Why are there water restrictions?
While California has received significant rainfall in 2023 so far, the state has frequently endured drought conditions over the years. It’s important that all customers use water wisely so there is enough water for everyday and emergency needs, especially as drought periods get more frequent, longer, and more severe.
Who imposes these restrictions?
Currently, local and/or regional water providers determine how these reductions are achieved. If we are not able to reduce usage enough, the state could implement mandatory water-use reduction requirements. Additionally, in some cases, regional suppliers, such as the Metropolitan Water District of Southern California can enforce reduction requirements on local providers that receive water from them.
Why restrictions rather than water budgets?
Cal Water prefers to achieve greater water-use reductions by engaging and educating customers about voluntarily conserving water and avoiding water waste. Our customers have done a great job stepping up and saving water in the past, and we hope they will respond to the call to reduce water use again.
When will restrictions go into effect?
Watering restrictions are in effect now. We will inform all affected customers by mail if there are any modifications to the current restrictions.
Does Cal Water anticipate stricter restrictions?
Cal Water prefers to avoid moving to stricter levels by engaging with and informing customers about conserving water voluntarily. Our customers have done a great job stepping up and saving water when needed, and we are hopeful that our customers will respond to the need to reduce water use again.
Our Water Resource Sustainability Team continues to monitor supply and demand on an ongoing basis. Any future decisions will be based on our assessment of local supply and demand conditions. That said, we hope to achieve the needed reductions voluntarily so that we don’t have to implement additional restrictions for customers.
How much water can I use per day?
At this time, Cal Water has not implemented water budgets that require a specific reduction amount for each customer. However, we encourage all customers to continue to save water every day.
