Water Conservation - Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is the State mandating residents to conserve more water?

On May 24, 2023 Governor Newsom eased drought restrictions to some degree and no longer requires that cities and water agencies be in a Water Reduction Plan 2 or equivalent.
On July 18, 2023, City Council voted to reduce its Water Reduction Plan from Plan 2 to Water Reduction Plan 1
While the Water Reduction Plan 1 only requires voluntary restrictions the State still prohibits various water waste practices
Eased restrictions mean that it is no longer required to only irrigate 3 days per week. However, Anaheim encourages its customers to voluntarily limit outdoor irrigation and encourages ongoing water conservation practices., and in the evening and early morning hours.

2. What are the mandatory water use restrictions?

The State indicated the following water waste activities are still restricted:

Watering lawns in a manner that causes runoff or watering within 48 hours after measurable precipitation.
Using a hose to wash a motor vehicle, except where the hose is fitted with a shutoff nozzle.
Washing down driveways and sidewalks with potable water, except to address an immediate health and safety need.
Using of potable water in a fountain or decorative water feature, unless the water is re-circulated.
Unrepaired water leaks from indoor and outdoor plumbing fixtures

3. Is the City still in a drought?

While water conditions have significantly improved during the 2022-2023 Winter, history has shown that California regularly experiences periods of drought. For this reason, Anaheim encourages its customers to continue to use water wisely and to make conservation a way of life.

4. What is the City doing about ongoing water conservation?

Anaheim Public Utilities collaborates with regional partners and adjacent cities to implement long-term solutions by strategically implementing water sustainability initiatives. Additionally, Anaheim Public Utilities provides rebates, landscape workshops, water awareness events, landscape surveys, and responds to water waste reports to promote ongoing conservation.

5. Are there any outdoor irrigation restrictions in place?

Anaheim does not currently have any mandatory irrigation restrictions in place. However, Anaheim encourages customers to voluntarily limit outdoor irrigation and to use water wisely.

6. Does the City have enough water?

Currently, the answer is yes, because the City has planned for droughts by investing in local water supply projects and regional water storage programs. The City has enough water for all customers and fire protection.

9. Will my water bill go up?

The City’s water rates are based on the cost to serve its customers, which includes water supplies, operation of the system, capital investments, and any penalties assessed by the state. If water agencies like Anaheim are assessed penalties, or are subject to increases in water supply costs from its wholesale providers, those costs are ultimately paid by customers. Please be assured that Anaheim remains one of the lowest cost providers in Orange County.

10. Don’t we get most of our water from underground?

Even though Anaheim is fortunate to receive about 75% of its water from the groundwater basin, we are still subject to the regional issue of lower storage in reserves. Without enough rainfall in Southern California these reserves do not get replenished. Soon Anaheim will see 85% of our water coming from local resources, as Anaheim continues to invest in local solutions

11. I see a business or neighbor waster water all the time. What should I do, report them?

We encourage neighbors to talk to each other about water conservation in a positive manner. If some neighbors or businesses are non‐compliant, you are welcome to use Anaheim Anytime or call 311 (714-765-4311) to anonymously report excessive water waste. PLEASE MAKE SURE TO PROVIDE EXACT ADDRESS LOCATION AND IDENTIFY WATER WASTE ISSUE.

12. Am I allowed to fill my pool?

Yes. Currently, there are no restrictions against filling or refilling swimming pools. However, we highly recommend that you consider installing a pool cover to reduce evaporation.

13. Am I allowed to use a water slide or kiddie pool?

Yes. Currently, there are no restrictions against water play, however water running down the driveway and sidewalk is considered waste and not allowed.

14. What can I do to reduce my watering?

The City offers a number of programs and rebates to help customers save water. Start with scheduling a FREE Home Utility Checkup for your home that includes an evaluation of your indoor/outdoor water and energy use. A landscape watering schedule and a personalized report on potential water/energy saving opportunities and available rebates will be provided. Please call 714-831-0025 for your first time appointment.

15. Does the City offer rebates to save water outdoors?

Yes, current rebates include weather‐based irrigation controllers, rotating nozzles, and turf removal. In addition, you may schedule a free Home Utility Checkup for your home that includes water saving devices, a watering schedule and a personalized report on potential water saving opportunities. Please call 714-831-0025 for your first-time appointment.

17. Where can I get more information on water rebates?

Please visit anaheim.net/savewater and socalwatersmart.com

Who to Contact?

Customer Service: 714-765-3300
Call 311: 714-765-4311
Anaheim Anytime
savewater@anaheim.net