Santa Monica : Water Restrictions Eased

The City Council ordered the easing of water restrictions by 10% for residents and businesses.

The council Tuesday night directed City Atty. Robert Meyers to amend the city’s water conservation ordinance, which has required water customers to pay fines for water used in excess of 20% of 1990 allotments.

The amendment was prompted by a similar easing of restrictions by the city’s main water supplier, the Metropolitan Water District, and could take effect as early as next week, City Clerk Clarice Dykhouse said.

Council members praised the community for its water-saving efforts, but stressed that other water restrictions imposed by the ordinance will remain in effect, namely a ban on outdoor watering between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. and using running hoses to wash cars.