Citing Drought, WRCB Pens Emergency Rule Banning ‘Wasteful’ Water Uses

Citing “severe” drought conditions exacerbated by climate change, California’s water board is advancing an emergency rule to prohibit the general public and businesses from engaging in “wasteful” water uses such as “excessive irrigation” -- a measure authorized by a recent drought proclamation by Gov. Gavin Newsom (D). “If passed, the regulation will make wasteful water practices, such as excessive irrigation causing runoff, using potable water for street cleaning, or irrigating landscapes within 48 hours of measurable rainfall, a violation for...