OXNARD : Water Conservation Measures on Agenda

The city of Oxnard today will consider a water conservation ordinance that bans water-wasting practices like hosing off driveways and would levy fines or cut off water service for repeat violators.

Although Oxnard has a direct waterline from the state water project, city officials said the ordinance is proposed to avoid future shortages as the drought in Southern California enters its fifth year.

The ordinance would also prohibit watering lawns between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., prohibit allowing water to run onto streets and sidewalks, and prohibit serving water at restaurants unless requested by a customer. It would ban carwashes that do not recycle water, decorative fountains that do not recycle, and broken or damaged water fixtures that are not repaired within a reasonable amount of time.

After the first offense, city officials will warn violators. A second offense within 12 months will result in a fine equal to 25% of the most recent utility bill or $25, whichever is higher. A third offense within 12 months will result in a fine equal to 50% of the most recent bill or $50, whichever is higher.

If a fourth violation occurs, the city will install a water restriction device on the violator’s waterline.

The city could cut off water services if a person violates the ordinance more than four times within 12 months.