Seattle Public Utilities asks customers for voluntary water conservation under its Water Shortage Contingency Plan. Mandatory outdoor watering restrictions activate only at Stage 2 or above, declared during regional drought emergencies.
Seattle Public Utilities operates four water shortage stages under its Water Shortage Contingency Plan, codified through Director's Rule and SMC 21.04. Stage 1 (Advisory) triggers voluntary cutbacks. Stage 2 (Voluntary) requests odd-even watering days. Stage 3 (Mandatory) bans midday irrigation 10 a.m.-7 p.m., limits lawn watering to twice weekly, and prohibits washing impervious surfaces. Stage 4 (Curtailment) bans nearly all outdoor watering and shutoff for vehicle washing except commercial. Seattle issued Stage 2 in 2015 and 2023; rarely reaches Stage 3. SPU enforces via warnings, then escalating fines. Utility offers free smart-controller rebates and turf-replacement vouchers.
Stage 3+ outdoor watering violations: SPU civil fines starting at $50 first offense, doubling to $250 thereafter, plus possible service termination for chronic violators.
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