Crystal Lakers: There's a Watering Restriction!

Crystal Lake has imposed the Yellow code status for lawns and landscaping watering.

But it appears many residents aren't aware of the water restrictions, city officials said Thursday. 

City workers have been ringing door bells at houses where sprinklers are running during prohibited hours, or days. The "Yellow" code means lawn and landscape watering is only permitted by residents on odd/ even calendar days.

Homeowners whose property addresses end in odd numbers are permitted to water their lawns on odd-numbered calendar days. Those with an even-number address must water on even-numbered calendar days.

Residents should be aware that setting the sprinkler on the lawn is only permitted between 5 a.m. to 8 a.m., and 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. to conserve water during peak-demand-use hours.

However, "residents are encouraged not to water their lawns during this prolongued dry weather," the city of Crystal Lake website now states.

Fees for Violating Watering Restriction

The city code states:

Any person, firm, or corporation violating this water conservation ordinance 322 is subject to a fine not less than $50.00 dollars, or more than five hundred $500 for each offense plus the city’s cost of prosecution including, but not limited to, attorney fees. Each day that violation exists shall constitute a separate offense. 

The city's water conservation plan is part of a long-term effort to promote water conservation. The highest watering restriction status, "Red," would prohibit any watering of lawns and landscapes.