South Florida water managers tighten use restrictions

DELRAY BEACH — Prepare to use even less water — or pay a price.

The South Florida Water Management District has declared Phase III water restrictions effective Wednesday, meaning homeowners will be allowed to water their lawns or wash their cars or boats once a week only.  For residences of Delray Beach:

Addresses ending in an odd number:  Watering is permitted on Saturdays from 4 a.m. to 8 a.m.

Addresses ending in an even number or with no address:  Watering is permitted on Sundays from 4 a.m. to 8 a.m.

Handwatering:  With one hose and an automatic shut-off nozzle is also allowed from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. on the allowed watering day.

Washing cars, boats and other equipment is permitted from 4 a.m. to 8 a.m. and from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. on the allowed watering day.  Washing must be done on or drain to a non-paved surface that permits water to soak into the ground.

Delray Beach code enforcement officers are monitoring all areas of the city for water-use violations.  Code enforcement as well as the police department will issue $100 fines for first time violators and $200 fines for repeat offenders.  Call 243-7219 for more information or to report violations.

Phase III water restrictions also mean that Delray Beach water customers are subject to a 45 percent surcharge on their bills if they use 15,000 or more gallons of water per month.

For commercial property restrictions and/or other inquiries, contact the SFWMD at (561) 686-8800 or (800) 662-8876.