All Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any restrictions to indoor water use?
While there are no restrictions to indoor water use, we strongly encourage customers to conserve water in a number of other ways, such as taking shorter showers, installing water-efficient shower heads and faucet aerators, and using washing machines and dishwashers with full loads only. For more conservation tips, see the Conservation FAQs page.
Can I still run my dishwasher?
Yes. We encourage the use of high-efficiency household appliances and recommend only running the dishwasher when it has a full load of dishes.
How do you determine if a violation has taken place?
While our crews often spot water-use violations, many often go unnoticed. You can use our online water waste report form to submit photos or other key details to help determine whether a violation has indeed occurred. We will then investigate the issue and conduct any follow-up needed.
What is the penalty for not reducing water consumption?
The first water waste violation will result in a warning and may include the installation of a real-time water measurement device on the water meter. The second and third violations may result in $50 and $100 fines, respectively. After four violations or an egregious violation, a flow-restricting device may be installed.
Are there penalties for violating the drought restrictions?
Regardless of the stage of drought, first-time violators will have a real-time water measurement device installed on their water meter. Unmetered customers will have a meter installed.
Second- and third-time violators will have per-day financial penalties imposed. The amounts depend on the drought stage.
- Stage 1: $25 for second violation, $50 for third violation
- Stage 2: $50 for second violation, $100 for third violation
- Stage 3: $100 for second violation, $200 for third violation
- Stage 4: $200 for second violation, $400 for third violation
- Stage 5: $400 for second violation, $800 for third violation
- Stage 6: $800 for second violation, $1,600 for third violation
Subsequent violations will result in the installation of a flow-restriction device with a minimum flow rate of 0.5 gallons per minute.
Egregious violators could be subject to water service discontinuance.
How can I report leaks or water wasting activities?
If you are in a Cal Water service area and see a water leaks or water waste in public, you can report it using our Report Leaks and Waste form.
Note that as part of our customer-first approach, we prefer to educate customers about prohibited uses of water before issuing penalties.
Can a penalty be disputed?
If you dispute a penalty that has been assessed, you may call your local Cal Water office to speak with a customer service representative.
Who is responsible for making repairs?
Cal Water is responsible for repairs within the distribution system. Property owners are responsible for repairs to plumbing on their side of the water meter.
