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City Of Norwalk Declares Water Emergency, Asks Customers To Cut Usage

NORWALK, Conn. — Norwalk Mayor Harry Rilling is declaring a water emergency because a lack of rainfall is putting a strain on water supplies in the city. 

Norwalk is declaring a water emergency.

Norwalk is declaring a water emergency.

Photo Credit: File

Residents are being asked to voluntarily reduce water usage by the First District Water Department and the South Norwalk Electric & Water Co. 

This is needed in order to enhance water conservation and help preserve water supplies that are needed for human consumption, sanitary purposes and fire protection, the city said.

Drought conditions across the area are forecast to continue into the foreseeable future, the water companies said. Water supplies may reach dangerously low levels if no significant rainfall is received in the near future. 

This Water Emergency is effective on Oct. 9 and will remain in effect until reserves reach an acceptable level. The following activities are unlawful during the water emergency:

  • Sprinkling, watering, or irrigating shrubbery, trees, lawns, grass, ground cover, plants and flowers except when these items are intended for sale, is prohibited.
  • Washing automobiles, trucks, trailers, or boats except at automated facilities using no more than 45 gallons of potable water per vehicle is prohibited.
  • Washing or flushing walks, driveways, pavement, porches, or other outdoor surfaces is prohibited.
  • Using fire hydrants for purposes other than the protection of public safety by a public agency is prohibited
  • Filling or draining ponds or lakes used for private or public recreational purposes is prohibited.
  • Knowingly allowing leaking plumbing fixtures is prohibited.

The Norwalk Police Department is charged with enforcing the conditions of this water emergency. 

Police officers will first advise violators to curtail prohibited activities. Failure to comply will result in a fine of up to $90 per day for each day the violation exists.

"The goal of this action is to make sure we have water when we need it," the city said in a statement. "Cooperation and buy-in from the public during this time is essential to the success of this effort." 

For tips on conserving water, visit the water department websites at www.firstdistrictwater.org and www.snew.org.

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