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Drought Restrictions Eased to Level 1, with Statewide Guidelines
We've got some good news to share - as of March 24, 2023, Governor Gavin Newsom has lifted the drought state of emergency and has rescinded the emergency level 2 drought restrictions for the majority of the state, including Sonoma County. We are now at Emergency Level 1, which means some positive changes are coming your way.
You can now wash your cars. That's right, car washing is completely allowed! We know it's been on your mind, and we're here to set your mind at ease. Just be sure to use an automatic shutoff nozzle. Get more information about our water supply.
Even when accounting for those dry years, Rohnert Park's water supply is more than up to the task of meeting the needs of our current residents and accommodating the growth we're experiencing with new housing. So, rest easy, and feel free to give your car a well-deserved scrub. Please continue reading for more information to keep you informed.
To report a leak or water waste, please call 707-588-3343. Please provide the date, time, street address, and a brief description of the occurrence.
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- What is the status of the drought?
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The Sonoma County Water Agency (Sonoma Water) provides water for 600,000 people in Sonoma and Marin counties. Sonoma Water relies on the Russian River and two reservoirs. As of March 24, 2023, Governor Gavin Newsom has lifted the drought state of emergency and has rescinded the emergency level 2 drought restrictions for the majority of the state, including Sonoma County. There are currently no drought restrictions. Get more information about the impacts of low rainfall on the Russian River.
Drought Relief in the Russian River Watershed
While some parts of the state continue to experience severe drought conditions, we are pleased to announce that in the Russian River watershed, conditions have significantly improved. Thanks to recent developments and Executive Order N-5-23, curtailment orders implementing drought emergency regulations in the Russian River watershed have been rescinded. This signifies that water right holders in this region will no longer be obligated to adhere to curtailment requirements under the emergency regulation, and additional regulations specific to certain areas have also been rescinded.
We appreciate your ongoing commitment to responsible water use, and we encourage residents to stay informed about the specific water regulations applicable to their region.
We have some exciting news to share regarding our city's water conservation efforts! We would like to announce that the Level 2 water restrictions, which included mandatory compliance with various measures, have been lifted.
Let's recap the Level 2 restrictions that have now been lifted.
Level 2 Water Shortage Restrictions (No Longer in Effect)
- Restaurants were required to serve water on request.
- Hotels were obligated to allow guests to opt out of daily linen service.
- Filling new pools was prohibited.
- New water hauler accounts were restricted.
- Rate surcharges were under consideration.
- A water waste ordinance was in effect.
- Ornamental water features without circulating pumps were prohibited.
- Landscaping hours were restricted to between 8 pm and 6 am.
Now, let's explore the current Level 1 Water Shortage Contingency Plan:
Level 1 Water Shortage Contingency Plan: Voluntary Compliance
- Education and Outreach: We will continue to expand our education and outreach initiatives, working to raise awareness about responsible water usage within our community.
- Increased Water Waste Patrols: Our dedicated teams will intensify water waste patrols to identify and address any instances of water misuse.
- Targeting High Water Users: We will focus on the top 100 water users in our city, collaborating with them to explore opportunities for water conservation.
While we are pleased to announce the lifting of our Level 2 restrictions, it's important to note that certain water conservation measures established by the State Water Board remain in place. These regulations serve as the baseline for responsible water management and must be followed by all residents in California. Your continued adherence to these guidelines is crucial as we work together to ensure a sustainable water future for our state.
- Can I wash my car?
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Yes, residents are encouraged to maintain their vehicles and wash their cars. To practice responsible water usage, please use a hose equipped with an automatic shutoff nozzle, ensuring controlled and efficient water flow. Consider directing runoff towards vegetated or rock areas when available, and opt for cleaning detergents without harsh chemicals to minimize environmental impact.
- Can I water decorative grass?
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You are allowed to water decorative grass on your property unless you are in commercial, industrial, or institutional areas, including common areas of homeowner's associations (HOAs). However, please make sure that your watering practices do not lead to excessive runoff.
Additional Information & Resources
The City offers rebates to help residents save water. Call 707-585-6750 for more information.
Green House Call for Homeowners & Renters - NEW!
Rising Sunday Center for Opportunity, a Bay Area non-profit, partners with cities and PG&E Energy Watch Partnerships to deliver the California Youth Energy Services program (CYES). CYES employs local young adults in meaningful, positive work experience where they can make a difference in their community, help the environment, and shape their future success. Youth Energy Specialists work in teams of two to provide neighbors with no-cost Green House Calls. By installing energy and water-saving devices in local homes, Rising Sunday Energy Center prevents 28 metric tons of CO2 from entering the atmosphere each year.
Receive an energy and water conservation assessment and installation at no cost. Staff will check homes for efficiency, install equipment, and provide personalized recommendations for further savings. Staff will evaluate all water devices, inspect water pressure, and check for leaks. Residents receive free materials and services that reduce their water consumption. For more information or to be placed on the list to receive a Green House Call, please call 510-665-1501.
High Efficiency Toilet (HET) Rebate for Residential Customers
Receive up to $150 for the purchase of a new high-efficiency toilet. These HETs flush with 1.28 gallons of water (or less). New toilets must replace toilets that flush 3.5 gallons or more (Pre-1992). Download the application and list of qualifying toilets.
High Efficiency Clothes Washer Rebate for Residential Customers
Receive $75 for the purchase of a new water-saving, front-load washing machine. Download the application. Please note that this program only rebates High-Efficiency Clothes Washers that are listed as Tier 3 on the Consortium for Energy Efficiency's (CEE) List.
To report a leak or water waste, please call 707-588-3343. Please provide the date, time, street address and a brief description of the occurrence.
For additional information on Sonoma-Marin Saving Water Partnership and the California Water Efficiency Partnership, please contact staff at 707-585-6750.
To sign up for a Green House Call, please call 510-665-1501.
Rohnert Park is offering free mulch to residents. Our mulch pile is located in the Callinan Sports Center parking lot, at 5405 Snyder Lane. Self-service only so bring your shovel and load up as much as you want!
The City of Rohnert Park is offering residents a cash rebate of $1 per square foot of turf replaced. In order to be eligible for the program, applicants must:
- Be a water customer of the City of Rohnert Park and the owner of the property (residential only).
- Agree to brief pre- and post-installation inspections.
- At the pre-inspection visit, lawns must be green, regularly mowed, irrigated, and well taken care of. Dead lawns or lawns already removed at the time of the pre-inspection will not be eligible for a rebate.
- Replace lawn with water-conserving plants, vegetable gardens, or other low-water-using plant material, using sufficient mulch material around new plants.
- Modify the lawn irrigation system so that newly landscaped areas are served through a separate valve that can be controlled independently. Existing lawn sprinkler heads must be removed.
- Install a drip system for all new plant material (sprayheads are unacceptable).
- Agree to not reinstall turf. If turf is reinstalled, the entire rebate amount must be returned.
Applicants are ineligible for the program if:
- You replace your lawn with a pool, building extensions, hardscape or non-drought tolerant landscaping.
- Well water is used to irrigate the landscaping.
- Your replacement project is irrigated with the same sprinklers as the replaced lawn area.
In order to participate, applicants must:
- Step 1: Call the Enviornmental Coordinator at (707) 588-3325 to schedule a brief pre-inspection visit.
- Step 2: After the pre-inspection of the site is completed and the project is approved, proceed with the replacement project. Your project must receive pre-approval in order to qualify for the rebate. The project must be completed within 120 days from the date of approval.
- Step 3: Schedule a post-installation inspection upon completion of the project. Post-inspection must take place within the 120-day period of the pre-inspection.
- Step 4: Mail in your application (make copies for your own files). Rebates are for square feet of lawn removed only. No labor or material costs will be reimbursed.
The program is available while funding lasts. Resolution No. 2021-093 (PDF)
The City of Rohnert Park is committed to water conservation. City staff are here to help our residents and businesses conserve water and reduce the discharge of wastewater through a variety of programs, services, tools, tips, and rebates.
Watch a virtual tour of the Water Reuse System at the Laguna Treatment Plant, where sewage from homes and businesses is treated to become recycled water.