Water Conservation

Water conservation is the practice of using water efficiently and reducing unnecessary water use to protect limited water resources.

It involves actions by individuals, businesses, and municipalities to minimize waste and ensure a sustainable water supply for current and future needs. Common examples include fixing leaks, using water-efficient fixtures, limiting outdoor irrigation, and adopting practices that reduce overall consumption.

At the community level, water conservation also includes managing water systems responsibly, promoting public awareness, and implementing policies or programs that encourage efficient use—especially during times of drought or limited supply.

Town of Ennis – Water Shortage & Restriction Stages

When can water restrictions be put into place?

The Public Works Director, in consultation with Water Department staff, may declare a water shortage when necessary to protect the Town’s water supply for drinking, sanitation, and essential needs.

A water shortage may be declared because of:

• Critical equipment failure
• Excessive water demand
• Drought conditions
• Problems with groundwater wells
• Power outages or pump failures
• Problems with the water distribution system

Water demand is monitored through the Town's water system, and drought conditions are monitored using the U.S. Drought Monitor.

Stage I – Normal Conditions

Water supply: Normal

• Normal water use is allowed.
• The Town's general water conservation requirements remain in effect.

Stage II – Voluntary Conservation

Water supply: Peak daily demand is more than 80% of the system's capacity, or there are groundwater well pumping issues.

Restrictions:

• Voluntary water conservation is requested.
• No bulk water sales.

What this means: Residents are asked to voluntarily reduce their water use, but mandatory watering restrictions are not yet in place.

Stage III – Mandatory Restrictions

Water supply: Peak daily demand reaches or exceeds system capacity, or there are significant system problems such as an extended power outage, pump failure, or distribution failure.

Restrictions:

Outdoor watering is limited to 3 days per week:

Additional restrictions:

• No bulk water sales.
• No washing pavement, sidewalks, driveways, or other hard surfaces or buildings, except when using bucket water for safety or sanitation.
• No residential car washing. Car washing is only allowed at commercial car wash facilities.
• Exterior water features must be turned off.

Stage IV – Extreme Water Shortage

Stage IV is declared when the Town is experiencing an extreme water shortage, such as demand exceeding system capacity within 24 hours, a catastrophic system failure lasting more than 24 hours, or severe drought lasting more than one week.

All Stage III restrictions remain in effect, plus:

• All outdoor watering is prohibited, including lawns, gardens, trees, shrubs, parks, golf courses, playing fields, swimming pools, and other recreational areas.
• No new landscaping.
• No new turf planting.
• No washing of vehicles, boats, trailers, pavement, or the exterior of buildings or structures.

Exceptions for Stage III & IV

The following exceptions may apply:

• Commercial outdoor water use: A permit may be issued by the Public Works Department for businesses that cannot operate without outdoor water use.
• AIS decontamination: Water may be used for aquatic invasive species (AIS) boat and trailer decontamination.
• Existing new sod/turf: New sod, turf, or seeded lawns installed before Stage III may be exempt from restrictions for up to 30 days.
• Drip irrigation: Drip irrigation systems may be used for gardens.
• Hand watering: Hand watering is allowed using a hose equipped with a positive shut-off device/sprayer.

Quick Reference

These restrictions are based on Town of Ennis Code §§ 10-9-5 and 10-9-6 (Ord. 158-2023, adopted July 27, 2023).