San Diego Water Use Restrictions

As a San Diego Realtor I get asked about all kinds of things not only relating to real estate, but also all things San Diego. And lately, I've had quite a few clients and friends ask about the new mandatory San Diego water use restrictions that just went into effect. So since so many people want to know what the details are, I thought what better place to spread the word than here on my blog?

As many of you may know, San Diego, like much of southern California, is an arid desert climate, and therefore we go through long periods with very little rain. On average we only get about 10 inches of rain a year, and for the past several years we have been well below normal. This extended drought has reached a critical level causing the city of San Diego to declare a state of emergency and as of June 1st, 2009 to issue mandatory water use restrictions.

As the city states, "Wasting water has always been bad behavior. As of June 1, 2009, it's against the law." Below is the flyer from the water department with all of the rules and restrictions. If you double click it, it will enlarge. For further information you can go to www.sandiego.gov/water or call (619) 515-3500.

Some more quick tips to save water:

• Plant native plants that require less water.
• Turn off the water when you're brushing your teeth and lathering up in the shower. (On a side note, I heard a celebrity (who shall remain nameless because I love her and she meant well) once say that she saved water by brushing her teeth in the shower. Think of all the water that's running down the drain while you're brushing your teeth in the shower - or shaving in the shower while the water is running. DUH!)
• Make sure to wash dishes and clothes with full loads.
• And this may be TMI, but in regards to toilets remember the saying: "If it's yellow let it mellow..." I'll spare you the second part =) You can email me if you're dying to know...