In response to Governor Gavin Newsom’s March 28 executive order, the State Water Resource Control Board adopted an emergency water conservation regulation on May 24, that will ensure more aggressive conservation by local water agencies. This new regulation bans irrigating turf at commercial, industrial, and institutional properties, such as grass in front of or next to large industrial or commercial buildings. The ban does not include watering turf that is used for recreation or other community purposes, and water to maintain trees.

The ban will not apply to residential properties but will apply to the non-functional turf maintained by homeowners’ associations. This new restriction is expected to take effect on June 16.

Water suppliers and local government will be tasked with enforcing the ban, and those found to be in violation are subject to a daily fine up to $500.

The City of Ceres is committed to our business customers to help them meet this state mandate. We have resources, rebates, and updates to assist at ci.ceres.ca.us/674/Public-works

If you have any questions, please visit the City of Ceres Public Works website, or call (209) 538-5732.

The City of Ceres and the Ceres Courier have partnered to provide readers with current events and important information from the City of Ceres Public Works Department in a regular feature, City Connection.