San Antonio Gets Water Rules

Rain sensors like the one pictured will be required on existing sprinkler systems as of Jan. 2006 in San Antonio, Texas. Hydroscopic disks-not collector cups-are required in eligible rain sensors.

Homeowners and landscape professionals are learning about a new water ordinance approved by the City of San Antonio and the San Antonio Water System. The changes go into effect next year and will require rain sensors on irrigation systems and, in 2007, the installation of drought-tolerant turfgrass.

As of Jan., 2006 rain sensors will be required on all sprinkler systems. The sensors detect rain/moisture and prevent systems from running. If customers do not install rain sensors and a complaint is made, they will only receive one warning before being issued a "water-waster" ticket.

The biggest impact of the ordinance will be in new home construction, starting in Jan. 2006. At that time new home landscapes will be required to include low-water use features like:

• Four inches of soil beneath grass
• Zoned irrigation
• Irrigation based on plant types, not size of property

In 2007, drought-tolerant grass will be required in landscapes-varieties that can withstand an absence of water for 60 days.

Other parts of the ordinance addresses changes in charity car washes, power wash businesses, commercial irrigation, cooling towers, and more.

For more details on the city's new Conservation Ordinance, visit https://www.saws.org

(c) 2005 San Antonio Water System o 1001 E. Market St. o P.O. Box 2449 o San Antonio, TX 78298-2449, 210.704.7297

Customer service inquiries: service@saws.org.