Mandatory Stage 3 Water Restrictions Set as of 16 December 2024

Stage 3 of Water Restrictions happens when the combined levels for the City of Corpus Christi's primary western water sources (Lake Corpus Christi and Choke Canyon Reservoirs) are at 19.9% capacity.

"Under Section 5 of the City's Drought Contingency Plan, the authority to declare Stage 3 water restrictions lies with the City Manager when combined lake levels drop below 20%," stated city officials. Stage 3 will stay in effect until the combined levels are above 30%.

Does Drought Status Stage 3 mean water restrictions for everyday citizens?

Stage 3 means we must pause outdoor water use to protect our water supply. This includes temporarily stopping lawn watering, at-home car washing, and operating decorative fountains. However, city officials say indoor water use like showering, laundry, and dishes can continue as normal. You can still fill your pool or spa/hot-tub.

Can I water my lawn during Stage 3?

No, unessential watering of your lawn is prohibited. Citations for not following Stage 3 water restrictions will be issued and could result in fines of up to $500 per violation per day. Enforcement includes nights and weekends.

Here's a more detailed breakdown of the restrictions:

What is prohibited:

• All outdoor landscape watering: This includes watering lawns, gardens, and other landscaped areas, even with a handheld hose.
• Washing vehicles at home: Using water to wash motor vehicles, motorbikes, boats, trailers, or any other type of recreational vehicle is prohibited outside of commercial car washes.
• Decorative fountains: Operation of decorative fountains is prohibited.

What is permitted:

• Hand watering: Hand watering of trees, vegetable gardens, shrubs, and potted plants is allowed before 10 a.m. and after 6 p.m. using a handheld hose, bucket, or small watering can.
• Foundation maintenance: Watering to maintain the integrity of a building foundation is still permitted on the designated Stage 2 watering day, but it must be done by hand or drip irrigation.
• Commercial car washes: Commercial car washing businesses will be allowed to continue to operate.
• Filling swimming pools: Filling swimming pools is permitted to maintain equipment, but residents are encouraged to cover pools to prevent evaporation.
• Grey water use: There are no restrictions on the use of grey water.
• Irrigation with water wells or aerobic septic systems: These are exempt from water restrictions.

How can you find out more?

• Stage 3 Water Restrictions FAQs: Visit stage3.cctexas.com.
• City of Corpus Christi Water Department: Visit www.corpuschristitx.gov/department-directory/corpus-christi-water/.
• Corpus Christi Water Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/CCTXWater/
• Visit stage3.cctexas.com for more information
• Call the City's Water Resource Hotline at (361) 826-1600
• Contact the Public Information Manager at (361) 826-3233 or robertg8@cctexas.com