Watering of non-functional grass at businesses and HOAs not allowed
SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. – Acting on an executive order by Governor Newsome, the State Water Resources Control Board has adopted emergency drought regulations. Water supplies have been directed to activate their drought plan to prepare for up to a 20 percent water shortage.
The state’s stricter drought restrictions banned irrigating “non-functional” grass at businesses and in common areas of homeowner associations. “Non-functional” turf is defined as “solely ornamental” and not regularly used for recreation purposes or community events. This does not apply to yards at individual homes, nor does it apply to sports fields, grassy areas where people gather, or for watering to keep trees healthy.
What does this mean for South Lake Tahoe?
For South Tahoe Public Utility District residential water customers, this means designated watering days will continue to be enforced this summer. Customers with even-numbered street addresses water Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. Customers with odd-numbered street addresses water Tuesday, Thursday, and Sunday.
For businesses in South Lake Tahoe, watering ornamental grass will not be permitted starting June 10, 2022.
These restrictions will remain in effect for one year unless the State Water Board modifies or ends the emergency.
“The District has taken a proactive approach regarding drought management, which helps minimize the impacts from the state’s drought restrictions,” said Shelly Thomsen, Public Affairs and Conservation Manager. “I encourage customers to take advantage of our water conservation rebates and services to save water and money.”
For South Tahoe PUD water customers interested in replacing water-thirsty grass with Tahoe-friendly landscaping, you can sign up for the turf buy-back program while funds are available to receive $1.50 per square foot up to $2,000.
For tips and tricks on how to improve irrigation efficiency or modify
irrigation systems to only water trees and shrubs, you can sign-up for a free Water Wise Landscape Consultation. To learn more or sign-up, visit stpud.us/waterconsv.