West New York, NJ Landscaping Rules: Water Restrictions (2026)

Chapter 401, Article II, adopted 10-18-1989 as Ord. No. 1858, sets the procedure. Under § 401-7 the governing body, the Board of Commissioners, adopts a resolution at any regular, special, adjourned or emergency public meeting. The resolution identifies the part of the Town affected, which can be the entire Town, names which § 401-8 restrictions apply, and lists any exemptions. It takes effect on publication according to law and continues for 90 days unless extended or repealed under § 401-9. A water emergency exists if the public utility serving all or part of the Town has adopted water use restrictions and notified the Town, the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities and the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection, or if the governing authority is otherwise satisfied one exists.

Section 401-8 first urges all citizens to observe voluntary indoor conservation measures. The restrictions apply to all residents and tenants, except where a bona fide health emergency exists, and exempt businesses as specified. Option A is a complete ban on outside water use, including watering of lawns and plants, filling of pools and washing of cars. Option B allows outside use on alternate days: even house or box numbers on even days and odd numbers on odd days, with outside use banned on the 31st day of any month. Option C is any other reasonable restriction the resolution specifies.

Section 401-9 requires a stated period no longer than reasonably necessary. When it expires, the restriction lapses and is unenforceable unless the Board adopts a continuing resolution. Chapter 401 sets no year-round watering schedule. Under § 401-10 the local authorized official enforces the restrictions, gives a first-offense written warning explaining the penalties, keeps records of warnings and can write summonses.