The city of Santa Clara has joined a long list of California cities and counties in declaring a local emergency for extreme drought conditions.
On Tuesday, the City Council unanimously ratified the emergency proclamation which asks residents to conserve water, in line with directives from Santa Clara Valley Water District.
The emergency proclamation, called for by City Manager Deanna Santana, also requires the city to move into Stage 2 of its water shortage contingency plan.
Once implemented, the city will enforce watering use restrictions such as limiting outdoor watering to a maximum of three days a week. Odd numbered addresses and sites with no addresses can water Mondays, Thursdays and Saturdays and even numbered addresses can water on Tuesdays, Fridays and Sundays.
Irrigation also will not be allowed between the hours of 9 a.m. and 6 p.m. or 48 hours after measurable precipitation.
Under the emergency proclamation, the city is expanding its public information campaign before enforcing fines for residents.
“We’re really trying to educate the residents rather than fine anybody at this time,” city spokesperson Maria Le said.
The city will also be reducing hydrant/line flushing, unless for public health and safety as well as water use for construction and will restrict irrigation on golf courses unless recycled water is available.
The city’s website provides more information about water conservation tips, what the emergency proclamation means for residents and how to report water waste.
Residents call also call 408-615-2000 or email the city for questions.
A replay of the July 13 City Council meeting is available on the city’s YouTube channel.