The purpose of this article is to provide for the health, safety, and general welfare of the citizens of city, as well as protect the environment and limited regional water sources through the effective management and conservation of the public water supply. This article establishes methods to conserve and manage the public water supply yearround and in times of drought.
(Ordinance 110802-1 adopted 8/2/11; Ordinance 2023-04 adopted 6/20/2023; Ordinance 2024-16 adopted 5/7/2024)
An opportunity for the public to provide input into the preparation of the plan was provided by the city by means of providing a public notice of a public meeting to accept input on the plan.
(Ordinance 110802-1 adopted 8/2/11; Ordinance 2023-04 adopted 6/20/2023; Ordinance 2024-16 adopted 5/7/2024)
The city will periodically provide the public with information about the plan, including information about the conditions under which each stage of the plan is to be initiated or terminated and the drought response measures to be implemented in each stage. This information will be provided at a minimum by means of a notice published on the city website and a press release.
(Ordinance 110802-1 adopted 8/2/11; Ordinance 2023-04 adopted 6/20/2023; Ordinance 2024-16 adopted 5/7/2024)
The service area of the city is located within the Region K and Region L water planning areas. The city has provided a copy of this plan to Region K, Region L, Barton Springs Edwards Aquifer Conservation District, Alliance Regional Water Authority, and Guadalupe-Blanco River Authority.
(Ordinance 110802-1 adopted 8/2/11; Ordinance 2023-04 adopted 6/20/2023; Ordinance 2024-16 adopted 5/7/2024)
The city manager or his/her designee is hereby authorized and directed to implement the applicable provisions of this plan upon the determination that such implementation is necessary to protect the public health, safety, and welfare. The city manager or his/her designee shall have the authority to initiate or terminate drought of other water supply emergency response measures as described in this plan.
(Ordinance 110802-1 adopted 8/2/11; Ordinance 2023-04 adopted 6/20/2023; Ordinance 2024-16 adopted 5/7/2024)
The provision of this plan shall apply to all persons, customers, and property utilizing water provided by the city. The terms "person" and "customer" as used in the plan include individuals, corporations, partnerships, associations, and all other legal entities. The requirements do not apply to alternative water sources such as rainwater, graywater, reclaimed water, and private wells. Owners of private wells and customers of other water utilities are encouraged to contact their respective utility provider and/or regulatory agency for applicable requirements.
(Ordinance 110802-1 adopted 8/2/11; Ordinance 2023-04 adopted 6/20/2023; Ordinance 2024-16 adopted 5/7/2024)
The following words and phrases, when used in this article, shall have the meanings respectively ascribed to them in this definitions section, except when the context otherwise requires. Whenever any words and phrases used herein are not defined herein but are defined in the federal and state laws regulating public water supplies and drought management, any such definition therein shall be deemed to apply to such words and phrases used herein, except when the context otherwise requires.
Aesthetic water feature.
A fountain, waterfall, landscape lake or pond, or another decorative feature where the use is entirely ornamental and serves no other functional purpose.
Aquifer.
The Edwards Aquifer.
ARWA.
The Alliance Regional Water Authority.
Automatic sprinkler irrigation system.
A system of fixed pipes and sprinkler heads that apply water to landscape plants or turf.
BSEACD.
The Barton Springs Edwards Aquifer Conservation District.
CFS.
Cubic feet per second.
Charity carwash.
Any special event involving the washing of vehicles for a requested or suggested donation.
City manager.
The city manager of the city, or a person designated by the city manager to act in his or her behalf.
Commercial carwash.
Any permanently located or mobile carwash that washes automobiles, trucks, trailers, boats and other mobile equipment for a fee.
Commercial, mixed use or multifamily customer.
For the purposes of this article, a water customer being charged using the commercial rate structure. This includes irrigation meters not associated with a companion residential water account (i.e. landscape lots maintained by homeowners associations).
Drip irrigation.
A system of fixed pipes or hoses with emitters designed to apply water to plants slowly and under pressurized conditions at or below the soil surface.
Existing landscape.
Landscaping plants and/or turf on which installation was completed more than 21 days from the current date.
Foundation watering.
Use of a soaker hose or similar device placed within 24 inches of a building foundation that does not produce a spray of water above the ground for the purpose of providing moisture to the foundation soils in an effort to prevent cracking or shifting.
GBRA.
The Guadalupe Blanco River Authority.
Graywater.
Defined as wastewater from showers, bathtubs, handwashing lavatories, sinks not used for the disposal of hazardous or toxic ingredients, sinks not used for food preparation or disposal. Graywater does not include wastewater from the washing of material, including diapers, soiled with human excrement or wastewater that has come into contact with toilet waste. Graywater does not include municipally treated reclaimed water.
Handheld bucket.
A container holding five gallons or less.
Handheld hose.
A hose equipped with a positive shutoff device.
Health and safety use.
Use of water for any purpose that is necessary to protect human health and safety.
Hose-end sprinkler.
Any lawn irrigation device that attaches to the end of a water hose and is not equipped with an integrated positive shutoff device.
Impervious surface.
A type of surface that prevents water from penetrating directly into the ground. Impervious surfaces include but are not limited to, sidewalks, driveways, paved streets, and pavers or stones set with mortar.
Irrigation system.
See automatic sprinkler irrigation system.
Landscape watering.
The application of water to grow landscaping plants.
Landscaping plant.
Any plant, including any tree, shrub, vine, herb, flower, vegetable, fruit, succulent, ground cover or grass species that is used for landscaping purposes or for the support of intensive recreational areas including playgrounds and playing fields.
Makeup.
Partial refilling of a swimming pool or hot tub or an aesthetic water feature to replace water lost through evaporation or backwashing.
Mobile carwash.
A commercial carwash equipped with a vehicle or trailer-mounted self-contained washing system with any of the following: water or detergent solution, storage tank, high pressure/low-flow pumping equipment, hoses, spray wand and related apparatuses.
New landscape.
Landscaping plants and/or turf on which installation was completed within the last 21 days.
Noncommercial vehicle washing.
The washing of automobiles, trucks, trailers, boats, and other mobile equipment at a private residence.
Nonessential water use.
Any usage of water that is not required for:
(1) 
A health and safety use;
(2) 
Personal needs such as drinking, bathing, cooling, heating, cooking, food preparation, cleaning or sanitation;
(3) 
Medical or industrial processes; or
(4) 
Watering of livestock.
Not in use.
As it relates to swimming pools, hot tubs and similar facilities, a facility which is not used during any 24-hour period.
Outdoor splash pad.
A permanent recreational water feature that sprays, pours, and/or dumps water onto individuals.
Patio mister.
A device which sprays fine water particles for outdoor cooling.
Person.
With respect to this article, any individual, corporation, partnership, or other legal entity within the corporate limits of the city, or any individual, corporation, partnership, or other legal entity outside the corporate limits of the city who is a city water customer.
Positive shutoff device.
A device which permits water to flow through it only when a continuous pressure is applied to a handle, trigger, or similar portion of the device.
Protected tree.
A tree greater than eight (8) caliper inches.
Rainwater harvesting system.
Systems used to collect and store rainwater for consumption, irrigation, or other purposes.
Reclaimed water.
Municipally treated wastewater that is recycled or reused after it has been used for another purpose.
Residential customer.
For the purposes of this article, a water customer being charged using the residential rate structure. This includes irrigation meters associated with a companion residential water account (i.e. a separate irrigation meter at a residence supplying an automated sprinkler system for the residence).
Soaker hose.
A portable hose with small openings that applies water slowly to plants at the soil surface with no vertical spray.
Swimming pool.
Any structure, basin, chamber, or tank including hot tubs that contains an artificial body of water for swimming, diving, or recreational bathing, and having a depth of two (2) feet or more at any point.
Tree watering bag.
A watering device that holds water and is attached to a tree to slowly drain providing irrigation for a tree.
Vegetable garden.
A defined area cultivated primarily to grow vegetables, herbs and other plants useful for human consumption. A defined area in which such plants are grown together with aesthetic plants (also known as a 'potager') shall be treated as a "vegetable garden" for the purposes of the article if at least 60 percent of the plants are vegetables, herbs and other plants useful for human consumption.
Water waste.
Any activity which causes or results in excessive water usage, including but not limited to the following:
(1) 
Failing to repair a controllable leak, including a broken sprinkler head, a leaking valve, leaking or broken pipes, or a leaking faucet;
(2) 
Operation of a permanently installed irrigation system with a broken head, a head that is out of adjustment and the arc of the spray head is over a street or parking lot, or a head that is misting because of high water pressure;
(3) 
Operation of a permanently installed irrigation system, or use of a hose-end sprinkler, hand-held hose, handheld bucket, or soaker hose outside of the permitted days and times established by city ordinance; or
(4) 
Any irrigation that allows water to:
(A) 
Run off a property and form a stream of water in a street, gutter, ditch, drain, creek or any other natural or manmade watercourse for a distance of 50 feet or greater;
(B) 
Pond in a street or parking lot exceeding 50 square feet in size and to a depth greater than one-quarter of an inch; or
(C) 
Run off from a property onto adjacent properties.
(Ordinance 110802-1 adopted 8/2/11; Ordinance 2023-04 adopted 6/20/2023; Ordinance 2024-16 adopted 5/7/2024)
The city manager shall monitor water supply conditions on a daily basis. The city manager shall issue notices to implement or terminate drought response stages as follows:
(1) 
Stage 1.
(A) 
Stage 1 may be implemented by the city manager when any one of the following conditions occur, and shall be implemented if two or more conditions are present unless otherwise noted:
(i) 
BSEACD declares an alarm stage in accordance with its drought contingency plan;
(ii) 
GBRA declares a stage 1 drought in accordance with their drought contingency plan;
(iii) 
ARWA declares a stage 1 drought in accordance with their drought contingency plan;
(iv) 
Daily demand reaches 75 percent of available supply, based on the city's current water supply resulting from any curtailments implemented by water suppliers, for five consecutive days; or
(v) 
A water quality, supply, distribution system or other emergency exists as determined by the city manager.
(B) 
Stage 1 shall be terminated when the conditions which prompted the initiation of Stage 1 no longer exist.
(2) 
Stage 2.
(A) 
Stage 2 may be implemented by the city manager when any one of the following conditions occur and shall be implemented if two or more conditions are present unless otherwise noted:
(i) 
BSEACD declares a critical stage in accordance with its drought contingency plan;
(ii) 
GBRA declares stage 2 drought in accordance with their drought contingency plan;
(iii) 
ARWA declares stage 2 drought in accordance with their drought contingency plan;
(iv) 
Daily demand reaches 80 percent of available supply, based on the city's current water supply resulting from any curtailments implemented by water suppliers, for five consecutive days; or
(v) 
A water quality, supply, distribution system or other emergency exists as determined by the city manager.
(vi) 
If one of the conditions from Stage 1 exists and one condition from Stage 2 has been reached, then Stage 2 shall be implemented.
(B) 
Stage 2 shall be terminated when the conditions which prompted initiation of stage 2 no longer exist.
(3) 
Stage 3.
(A) 
Stage 3 may be implemented when any one of the following conditions occur and shall be implemented if two or more conditions are present unless otherwise noted:
(i) 
BSEACD declares an exceptional stage in accordance with its drought contingency plan;
(ii) 
GBRA declares stage 3 drought in accordance with their drought contingency plan;
(iii) 
ARWA declares stage 3 drought in accordance with their drought contingency plan;
(iv) 
Daily demand reaches 85 percent of available supply, based on the city's current water supply resulting from any curtailments implemented by water suppliers, for five consecutive days; or
(v) 
A water quality, supply, distribution system or other emergency exists as determined by the city manager.
(vi) 
If one of the conditions from Stage 2 exists and one condition from Stage 3 has been reached, then Stage 3 shall be implemented.
(B) 
Stage 3 shall be terminated when the conditions which prompted the initiation of Stage 3 no longer exist.
(4) 
Stage 4.
(A) 
A stage 4 drought may be declared by the city manager when any one of the following conditions occur and shall be declared if two or more of the below conditions:
(i) 
BSEACD declares an emergency response stage in accordance with its drought contingency plan;
(ii) 
GBRA declares stage 4 drought in accordance with their drought contingency plan;
(iii) 
ARWA declares stage 4 drought in accordance with their drought contingency plan;
(iv) 
Daily demand reaches 90 percent of available supply, based on the city's current water supply resulting from any curtailments implemented by water suppliers, for five consecutive days; or
(v) 
A water quality, supply, distribution system or other emergency exists as determined by the city manager.
(vi) 
If one of the conditions from Stage 3 exists and one condition from Stage 4 has been reached, then Stage 4 shall be implemented.
(B) 
Stage 4 shall be terminated when the conditions which prompted the initiation of Stage 4 no longer exist.
(5) 
Notice of implementation and termination of stages.
The city will make reasonable efforts to provide customers with notices of implementation and termination of drought stages. At a minimum, the city shall post notices on the city's website and in the official newspaper of record of the city.
(Ordinance 110802-1 adopted 8/2/11; Ordinance 2023-04 adopted 6/20/2023; Ordinance 2024-16 adopted 5/7/2024)
The city obtains water from several sources, including BSEACD, ARWA, and GBRA. Each of these entities has their own drought contingency plan with different reduction requests for each stage. Table 1 below provides a list of the percent reductions called for by each water provider as well as the target percent reduction in water use proposed by the city.
Table 1. Percent Reduction in Water Use
Stage
BSEACD
GBRA
City of Buda
Yearround
10%
0%
5%
I
20%
5%
10%
II
30%
10%
20%
III
40%
15%
30%
IV
50%
pro rata basis
40%
(Ordinance 110802-1 adopted 8/2/11; Ordinance 2023-04 adopted 6/20/2023; Ordinance 2024-16 adopted 5/7/2024)
(a) 
Targeted reduction: 5% of total water use.
(b) 
The following allowances and restrictions are in effect always; however, the allowances and restrictions may be superseded by more stringent restrictions upon implementation of a drought response stage.
(1) 
Waste of water is prohibited at all times.
(2) 
Irrigation:
(A) 
Irrigation with hose-end sprinklers and automatic sprinkler systems is prohibited between the hours of 11:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m.
(B) 
Customers are encouraged to abide by the yearround voluntary irrigation schedule:
(i) 
Outdoor watering twice-per-week schedule:
a. 
Odd-numbered residential: Wednesday and Saturday.
b. 
Even-numbered residential: Thursday and Sunday.
c. 
Commercial, mixed use and multifamily: Tuesday and Friday.
(C) 
Irrigation with a handheld bucket, handheld hose, soaker hose or drip irrigation is allowed on any day and at any time.
(D) 
Irrigation of vegetable gardens with a handheld bucket, handheld hose, soaker hose or drip irrigation is allowed on any day and at any time.
(E) 
Date and time restrictions for irrigation do not apply during repair or testing of a new or existing irrigation system if the person performing the testing is present. The irrigation system shall only be operated as long as is necessary to diagnose and complete repairs.
(F) 
No golf courses shall be allowed to irrigate the landscape, greens, tees, roughs or fairways with potable water.
(G) 
Outdoor watering using potable water at HOA common areas, athletic fields and city facilities shall follow the same watering schedule as commercial accounts.
(3) 
Vehicle washing:
(A) 
Charity carwashes are allowed but must be done using a handheld bucket or a handheld hose equipped with a positive shutoff device. Charity carwashes shall not create water waste as defined herein.
(B) 
Noncommercial vehicle washing is allowed on any day and at any time but must be done using a handheld bucket or a handheld hose equipped with a positive shutoff device.
(C) 
Commercial vehicle washing is allowed on any day and at any time.
(D) 
New commercial carwashes built after January 1, 2019 shall reuse at least 50 percent of rinse water and reuse all reverse osmosis concentrate.
(4) 
Swimming pools are allowed to operate and be filled as normal. It is recommended that swimming pools be covered while not in use to minimize evaporative losses.
(5) 
Operation of non-recirculating outdoor splash pads shall be prohibited at all times.
(6) 
Operation of non-recirculating aesthetic water features is prohibited at all times.
(7) 
Washing of impervious surfaces is allowed but should be limited unless required for health and safety use.
(8) 
Foundation watering is allowed on any day and at any time. However, foundation watering shall not result in saturation to the point it causes pooling in the yard or runoff onto impervious surfaces, adjacent property, drainage facilities (natural or manmade), sidewalks or streets.
(9) 
Other nonessential water uses are allowed but all reasonable measures shall be taken to limit the use.
(Ordinance 110802-1 adopted 8/2/11; Ordinance 2023-04 adopted 6/20/2023; Ordinance 2024-16 adopted 5/7/2024)
(a) 
Targeted reduction: 10% of total water use (target reduction of 500—1,500 gallons per billing cycle).
(b) 
The following measures are in effect for any period when stage 1 of the drought response plan has been implemented:
(1) 
Waste of water is prohibited.
(2) 
Outdoor irrigation shall be restricted as follows:
(A) 
Irrigation with hose-end sprinklers and automatic sprinkler systems is prohibited between the hours of 11:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. and shall follow the outdoor watering twice-per-week schedule:
(i) 
Odd-numbered residential: Wednesday and/or Saturday.
(ii) 
Even-numbered residential: Thursday and/or Sunday.
(iii) 
Commercial, mixed use, multifamily, school/city athletic fields: Tuesday and/or Friday.
(iv) 
Outdoor watering must start and stop within the 24-hour period of the designated water day as determined by address.
(v) 
It is recommended that outdoor watering be limited to one of the permitted watering days each week to promote conservation.
(B) 
Outdoor watering with a handheld bucket, handheld hose with a positive shutoff device, soaker hose and/or drip irrigation are permitted at any time on any day.
(C) 
Irrigation of vegetable gardens with a handheld bucket, handheld hose, soaker hose or drip irrigation is allowed on any day and at any time.
(D) 
Irrigation of protected trees by a soaker hose, automatic bubbler, tree watering bag, or similar device placed within the tree's dripline is allowed on any day and at any time.
(E) 
Commercial nurseries are subject to the time restrictions when using automated irrigation systems but may operate on any day. Use of a handheld bucket, handheld hose with a positive shutoff device, soaker hose and/or drip irrigation are permitted at any time on any day.
(F) 
Date and time restrictions for irrigation do not apply during repair or testing of a new or existing irrigation system if the person performing the testing is present. The irrigation system shall only be operated as long as is necessary to diagnose and complete repairs.
(3) 
Vehicle washing:
(A) 
Charity carwashes are allowed but must be done using a handheld bucket or a handheld hose equipped with a positive shutoff device. Charity carwashes shall not create water waste as defined herein.
(B) 
Noncommercial vehicle washing is allowed on any day and at any time but must be done using a handheld bucket or a handheld hose equipped with a positive shutoff device.
(C) 
Commercial vehicle washing is allowed on any day and at any time.
(4) 
Swimming pools are allowed to operate and be filled as normal. It is recommended that swimming pools be covered while not in use to minimize evaporative losses.
(5) 
Operation of non-recirculating aesthetic water features is prohibited at all times.
(6) 
Washing of impervious surfaces is prohibited unless required for health and safety use.
(7) 
Foundation watering is allowed on any day and at any time. However, foundation watering shall not result in saturation to the point it causes pooling in the yard or runoff onto impervious surfaces, adjacent property, drainage facilities (natural or manmade), sidewalks or streets.
(8) 
Other nonessential water uses are allowed but all reasonable measures shall be taken to limit the use.
(Ordinance 110802-1 adopted 8/2/11; Ordinance 2023-04 adopted 6/20/2023; Ordinance 2024-16 adopted 5/7/2024)
(a) 
Targeted reduction: 20% of total water use (target reduction of 1,000 to 3,000 gallons per billing cycle).
(b) 
The following measures are in effect for any period when stage 2 of the drought response plan has been implemented:
(1) 
Waste of water is prohibited.
(2) 
Outdoor irrigation shall be restricted as follows:
(A) 
Irrigation with hose-end sprinklers and automatic sprinkler systems is prohibited between the hours of 11:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m., and shall follow the outdoor watering once-per-week schedule:
(i) 
Odd-numbered residential: Wednesday.
(ii) 
Even-numbered residential: Thursday.
(iii) 
Commercial, mixed use and multifamily: Tuesday.
(iv) 
School and city athletic fields: Tuesday and Friday
(v) 
Outdoor watering must start and stop within the 24-hour period of the designated water day as determined by address.
(B) 
Outdoor watering with a handheld bucket, handheld hose with a positive shutoff device, soaker hose and/or drip irrigation is restricted to the Stage 1 outdoor watering twice-per-week schedule and shall be prohibited between the hours of 11:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m.
(C) 
Irrigation of vegetable gardens with a handheld bucket, handheld hose with a positive shutoff device, soaker hose and/or drip irrigation is allowed any day but is prohibited between the hours of 11:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m.
(D) 
Irrigation of protected trees by a soaker hose, automatic bubbler, tree watering bag, or similar device placed within the tree's dripline is allowed any day but prohibited between the hours of 11:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m.
(E) 
Commercial nurseries are subject to the time restrictions when using automated irrigation systems but may operate on any day. Use of a handheld bucket, handheld hose with a positive shutoff device, soaker hose and/or drip irrigation are permitted at any time on any day.
(F) 
Date and time restrictions for irrigation does not apply during repair or testing of a new or existing irrigation system if the person performing the testing is present. The irrigation system shall only be operated for the minimum amount of time that is reasonably necessary to diagnose, complete any repairs and test the system.
(3) 
Vehicle washing:
(A) 
Charity carwashes are prohibited unless held at and using a commercial carwash facility that recycles at least 50% of their water to wash vehicles.
(B) 
Noncommercial vehicle washing is allowed but must comply with the twice-per-week outdoor watering schedule and must be done using a handheld bucket or a handheld hose equipped with a positive shutoff device.
(C) 
Commercial vehicle washing is allowed on any day and at any time.
(4) 
Filling of new and existing swimming pools using the municipal water supply is prohibited. Make up water of existing swimming pools is allowed. Swimming pool surfaces shall be covered at least 50 percent when not in use.
(5) 
Operation of non-recirculating aesthetic water features are prohibited at all times.
(6) 
Washing sidewalks, walkways, driveways, parking lots, street, tennis courts, and other impervious surfaces is prohibited except in emergencies to remove spills of hazardous materials or to eliminate dangerous conditions which threaten the public health, safety, or welfare. Washing buildings, houses or structures with a pressure washer or garden hose is prohibited for aesthetic purposes but allowable for surface preparation of maintenance work to be performed. A variance from the city must be obtained for any pressure washing performed during drought stage.
(7) 
Foundation watering is allowed on any day and at any time. However, foundation watering shall not result in saturation to the point it causes pooling in the yard or runoff onto impervious surfaces, adjacent property, drainage facilities (natural or manmade), sidewalks or streets.
(8) 
Other nonessential water uses are allowed but all reasonable measures shall be taken to limit the use.
(9) 
Construction water used for nonpotable needs, such as dust suppression, shall utilize alternative sources of water such as rainwater, graywater and reclaimed water to the maximum extent available. The city manager may cap withdrawals from construction meters connected to the city water system.
(Ordinance 110802-1 adopted 8/2/11; Ordinance 2023-04 adopted 6/20/2023; Ordinance 2024-16 adopted 5/7/2024)
(a) 
Targeted reduction: 30% of total water use (target reduction of 1500 to 5000 gallons per billing cycle).
(b) 
The following measures are in effect for any period when stage 3 of the drought response plan has been implemented:
(1) 
Waste of water is prohibited.
(2) 
Outdoor irrigation shall be restricted as follows:
(A) 
Irrigation with hose-end sprinklers and automatic sprinkler systems is allowed between the hours of 7:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m., and shall follow the outdoor watering once-per-week schedule:
(i) 
Odd-numbered residential: Wednesday.
(ii) 
Even-numbered residential: Thursday.
(iii) 
Commercial, mixed use and multifamily: Tuesday.
(iv) 
School and city athletic fields: Tuesday and Friday.
(v) 
Outdoor watering must start and stop within the 24-hour period of the designated water day as determined by address.
(B) 
Outdoor watering with handheld bucket, handheld hose with a positive shutoff device, soaker hose and/or drip irrigation is restricted to the outdoor watering once-per-week schedule and shall be prohibited between the hours of 11:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m.
(C) 
Irrigation of vegetable gardens with a handheld bucket, handheld hose, soaker hose or drip irrigation is allowed on any day but is prohibited between the hours of 11:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m.
(D) 
Irrigation of protected trees by a soaker hose, automatic bubbler, tree watering bag, or similar device placed within the tree's dripline is restricted to the outdoor watering once-per-week schedule and shall be prohibited between the hours of 11:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m.
(E) 
Commercial nurseries using automatic irrigation systems are allowed on any day but prohibited between the hours of 11:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. Use of handheld bucket, handheld hose with a positive shutoff device, soaker hose and/or drip irrigation are permitted at any time on any day.
(F) 
Date and time restrictions for irrigation do not apply during repair or testing of a new or existing irrigation system if the person performing the testing is present. The irrigation system shall only be operated as long as is necessary to diagnose and complete repairs.
(3) 
Vehicle washing:
(A) 
Charity carwashes are prohibited.
(B) 
Noncommercial vehicle washing is allowed but must comply with the once-per-week outdoor watering schedule and use a handheld bucket or a handheld hose equipped with a positive shutoff device.
(C) 
Commercial vehicle washing is allowed on any day and at any time.
(4) 
Filling of new and existing swimming pools is prohibited. Makeup of existing swimming pools is allowed. Swimming pool surfaces shall be covered at least 50 percent when not in use. Outdoor splash pads may be operated no more than three days per week. Operation of government-owned swimming pools and outdoor splash pads are exempted.
(5) 
Operation of non-recirculating aesthetic water features are prohibited at all times.
(6) 
Washing sidewalks, walkways, driveways, parking lots, street, tennis courts, and other impervious surfaces is prohibited except in emergencies to remove spills of hazardous materials or to eliminate dangerous conditions which threaten the public health, safety, or welfare. Washing buildings, houses or structures with a pressure washer or garden hose is prohibited for aesthetic purposes but allowable for surface preparation of maintenance work to be performed. A variance from the city must be obtained for any pressure washing performed during drought stage.
(7) 
Foundation watering is allowed on any day and at any time. However, foundation watering shall not result in saturation to the point it causes pooling in the yard or runoff onto impervious surfaces, adjacent property, drainage facilities (natural or manmade), sidewalks or streets.
(8) 
Other nonessential water uses are allowed but all reasonable measures shall be taken to limit the use.
(9) 
Construction water used for nonpotable needs, such as dust suppression, shall utilize alternative sources of water such as rainwater, graywater and reclaimed water to the maximum extent available. The city manager may cap withdrawals from construction meters connected to the city water system.
(Ordinance 110802-1 adopted 8/2/11; Ordinance 2023-04 adopted 6/20/2023; Ordinance 2024-16 adopted 5/7/2024)
(a) 
Targeted reduction: 40% of total water use (target reduction of 2,000 to 6,000 gallons per billing cycle).
(b) 
The following measures are in effect for any period when stage 4 of the drought response plan has been implemented:
(1) 
Waste of water is prohibited.
(2) 
Outdoor irrigation shall be restricted as follows:
(A) 
Irrigation with hose-end sprinklers and automatic sprinkler systems is allowed between the hours of 7:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. and shall follow the outdoor watering once-per-every-other-week schedule:
(i) 
Odd-numbered residential: Wednesday, on the week of recycling pick up for that address.
(ii) 
Even-numbered residential: Thursday, on the week of recycling pick up for that address.
(iii) 
Commercial, mixed use, multifamily, school/city athletic fields: Tuesday, on the week of recycling pick up for that address.
(iv) 
Outdoor watering must start and stop within the 24-hour period of the designated water day as determined by address.
(B) 
Outdoor watering with handheld bucket, handheld hose with a positive shutoff device, soaker hose and/or drip irrigation is restricted to the outdoor watering once per week schedule and shall be prohibited between the hours of 11:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m.
(C) 
Irrigation of vegetable gardens with a handheld bucket, handheld hose, soaker hose or drip irrigation is allowed on any day, but is prohibited between the hours of 11:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m.
(D) 
Irrigation of protected trees by a soaker hose, automatic bubbler, tree watering bag, or similar device placed within the tree's dripline is restricted to the outdoor watering once-per-week schedule and shall be prohibited between the hours of 11:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m.
(E) 
Commercial nurseries are restricted to the once-per-week schedule for automated irrigation systems before 11:00 a.m. and after 7:00 p.m. Use of handheld bucket, handheld hose with a positive shutoff device, soaker hose and/or drip irrigation are permitted any day before 11:00 a.m. and after 7:00 p.m.
(F) 
Date and time restrictions for irrigation does not apply during repair or testing of a new or existing irrigation system if the person performing the testing is present. The irrigation system shall only be operated as long as is necessary to diagnose and complete repairs.
(G) 
The city council may take action following enactment of stage 4 to prohibit all outdoor irrigation if it determines there is a direct threat to health, safety and the general welfare.
(3) 
Vehicle washing:
(A) 
Charity carwashes are prohibited.
(B) 
Noncommercial vehicle washing is prohibited except at a commercial carwash.
(C) 
Commercial vehicle washing is allowed on any day and at any time for facilities that reuse 50% of their water, otherwise prohibited.
(4) 
Filling and makeup water of all swimming pools is prohibited. Swimming pool surfaces shall be fully covered when not in use. Operation of outdoor splash pads are prohibited. Operation of government-owned swimming pools and outdoor splash pads are exempted.
(5) 
Operation of non-recirculating aesthetic water features is prohibited at all times.
(6) 
Washing sidewalks, walkways, driveways, parking lots, street, tennis courts, and other impervious surfaces is prohibited except in emergencies to remove spills of hazardous materials or to eliminate dangerous conditions which threaten the public health, safety, or welfare. Washing buildings, houses or structures with a pressure washer or garden hose is prohibited for aesthetic purposes but allowable for surface preparation of maintenance work to be performed. A variance from the city must be obtained for any pressure washing performed during drought stage.
(7) 
Foundation watering is allowed on any day and at any time. However, foundation watering shall not result in saturation to the point it causes pooling in the yard or runoff onto impervious surfaces, adjacent property, drainage facilities (natural or manmade), sidewalks or streets.
(8) 
The use of patio misters for outdoor cooling is prohibited.
(9) 
Other nonessential water uses are prohibited as established by the city council.
(10) 
Construction water used for nonpotable needs, such as dust suppression, shall utilize alternative sources of water such as rainwater, graywater and reclaimed water to the maximum extent available. The city manager may cap withdrawals from construction meters connected to the city water system.
(Ordinance 110802-1 adopted 8/2/11; Ordinance 2023-04 adopted 6/20/2023; Ordinance 2024-16 adopted 5/7/2024)
(a) 
The city manager may grant an exception from the requirements of this article if it is determined that special circumstances exist and that:
(1) 
Compliance with this article adversely affects the health, sanitation, fire protection, or safety of the public;
(2) 
Compliance with this article cannot be technically accomplished;
(3) 
Alternative methods can be implemented that will achieve the same or greater reduction in water use;
(4) 
Substantially threatens the applicant's primary source of income; or
(5) 
Adversely affects pesticide or fertilizer application.
(b) 
The city manager may grant an exception pertaining to the time of day allowed and/or permitted watering day calendar for outdoor water use if the city manager determines that a property cannot be completely watered with an average of three-quarters of an inch of water per week and that the property should be divided into sections to be watered on different days.
(c) 
A person may seek an exception by filing an application with the city manager. The city manager may require the applicant to provide information to the city manager, if necessary, to evaluate the exception request. At a minimum, the applicant must provide the following:
(1) 
Name and address of the applicant;
(2) 
Purpose and location of water use;
(3) 
Specific provisions of this article for which the applicant is requesting an exception;
(4) 
Detailed explanation of how the specific provisions will adversely affect the applicant;
(5) 
Time period for which the exception is sought;
(6) 
Alternative measures the applicant proposes to implement in order to meet the intent of this article; and
(7) 
Any other pertinent information as required by the city manager.
(d) 
If the city manager approves an exception, the applicant shall keep a copy of the approval letter in a location on the affected property that is accessible and visible to the public.
(e) 
An approved exception or approved form of alternative compliance shall expire on its own terms, or when any of the following occur:
(1) 
A more intensive drought stage takes effect; or
(2) 
When a citation is issued alleging the applicant violated this article. Any person holding an exception or approved form of alternative compliance may make a request for reinstatement to the city manager within 72 hours of the issuance of a citation. All requests for reinstatement are denied unless they are approved within three (3) business days of receipt by the city manager's Office. The city manager may delegate the responsibility of approving reinstatements to an appropriate department head or assistant city manager if he/she deems appropriate to do so under the circumstances.
(Ordinance 110802-1 adopted 8/2/11; Ordinance 2023-04 adopted 6/20/2023; Ordinance 2024-16 adopted 5/7/2024)
(a) 
Noticed new landscape authorization.
Expressed approval from the city is not required. Rather, an applicant will submit a new landscape installation authorization form. Upon receipt of the completed form, the city will confirm its receipt with the applicant. The submission will reflect compliance with new landscape installation irrigation requirements as described below. Irrigation of the new landscaping may then commence in accordance with the dates as indicated by the applicant on the new landscape installation authorization. Any modification will require submittal of a new and completed new landscape installation authorization.
(b) 
Outdoor watering schedule during yearround conservation.
New landscape installation irrigation shall comply with the following schedule when drought stages are not in effect:
(1) 
Days 1-21: Irrigation permitted any day before 11:00 a.m. or after 7:00 p.m.
(2) 
After 21 days: The irrigation schedule shall be adjusted to follow the current schedule as dictated by current drought stage.
(c) 
Outdoor watering schedule during drought stages.
New landscape installation irrigation shall comply with the following schedule when drought stages are in effect:
(1) 
Stage 1 through Stage 2:
(A) 
Days 1-21: Irrigation permitted any day before 11:00 a.m. or after 7:00 p.m.
(B) 
After 21 days: The irrigation schedule shall be adjusted to follow the current schedule as dictated by current drought stage.
(2) 
Stage 3 and 4:
(A) 
Days 1-14: Irrigation permitted any day before 11:00 a.m. or after 7:00 p.m.
(B) 
After 14 days: The irrigation schedule shall be adjusted to follow the current schedule as dictated by current drought stage.
(d) 
The applicant shall post a copy of the notice in a location on the affected property that is accessible and visible to the public.
(e) 
All other aspects of this article shall remain in full effect, including prohibitions on waste of water.
(f) 
Watering shall not result in saturation to the point it causes pooling in the yard or runoff onto impervious surfaces, adjacent property, drainage facilities (natural or manmade), sidewalks or streets.
(Ordinance 110802-1 adopted 8/2/11; Ordinance 2023-04 adopted 6/20/2023; Ordinance 2024-16 adopted 5/7/2024)
(a) 
Any person who violates any of the provisions of this article shall be guilty of a misdemeanor and, upon conviction, shall be fined not less than one hundred dollars ($100.00) nor more than five hundred dollars ($500.00).
(b) 
If upon the trial, the state proves that the offense relates to public health or sanitation or there is a finding made that the offense was committed with criminal intent, whether it be criminal negligence, recklessness, knowingly or intentionally, the minimum fine is $1,000.00 and the maximum fine is $2,000.00 per offense.
(c) 
Each hour or portion thereof after the first hour of each day that a violation continues to exist shall constitute a separate offense.
(d) 
The city manager or their designee is authorized shall commence any action, in law or in equity, including the filing of criminal charges, deemed necessary to enforce this article. Civil penalties and any other legal or equitable relief available under common law, chapter 54 of the Texas Local Government Code or any other applicable city, state or federal code or statute are authorized, in addition to any criminal penalties. Under Local Government Code, chapter 54, the city may presently pursue civil enforcement for injunctive relief and the imposition of up to $1,000.00 per day civil penalties appropriately imposed by the court. This statutory remedy is in addition to the city's common law right to bring civil actions for injunctive relief to stop harmful acts, independent of authority found in the Texas Local Government Code. A civil penalty assessed against a utility customer for violation of this article may be collected through the utility billing system as part of the consolidated billing system.
(e) 
It is not a defense to prosecution under any provision of the article that the violation charged is no longer occurring or no longer exists. A judge of the municipal court may not dismiss a complaint or enter a finding of not guilty on the grounds that the violation is no longer occurring or no longer exists.
(f) 
Surcharges: Any person who violates the watering restriction provisions of this article will be held strictly liable and the punishment for such violation may include the imposition of punitive surcharges. The city is authorized to assess one or more surcharges on the water bill of any person presumed to have been the one who violated this article. In the event the city determines a violation has occurred, the person assessed the punitive surcharge by the city is prima facia presumed to have violated this article for the purpose of assessment of surcharges. Punitive surcharges may be assessed as follows:
(1) 
1st offense in a 12-month period: Warning.
(2) 
2nd offense in a 12-month period: $100.00.
(3) 
3rd offense in a 12-month period: $250.00.
(4) 
4th offense in a 12-month period: $500.00.
(g) 
Enforcement personnel may issue verbal and/or written warnings prior to issuance of a citation.
(Ordinance 110802-1 adopted 8/2/11; Ordinance 2023-04 adopted 6/20/2023; Ordinance 2024-16 adopted 5/7/2024)
(a) 
In addition to all peace officers, code enforcement officers, and other persons authorized to enforce city ordinances, the city manager is authorized to enforce this article by issuing citations to violators, filing complaints in the municipal court, and by directing the city attorney to file and pursue civil enforcement actions.
(b) 
Citizens that witness a violation of this ordinance are encouraged to notify the city's code enforcement officer.
(Ordinance 110802-1 adopted 8/2/11; Ordinance 2023-04 adopted 6/20/2023; Ordinance 2024-16 adopted 5/7/2024)
For the purposes of this article, in any case where water has been used on property in violation of this article, it shall be presumed that the person in whose name a water meter connection is registered with the city for the property committed the violation. Proof that the particular premises had a water meter connection registered in the name of the defendant cited in a criminal or civil complaint filed under this article shall constitute prima facie evidence that the defendant committed the violation.
(Ordinance 110802-1 adopted 8/2/11; Ordinance 2023-04 adopted 6/20/2023; Ordinance 2024-16 adopted 5/7/2024)
When a person is charged with more than three criminal violations of this article within a 12-month period, or a person fails to timely pay assessed penalties, the city manager or his designee may direct the installation of a flow control device on the customer's water line, the partial or complete termination of the customer's water service, or both, as appropriate. Partial termination of the customer's water service (discontinued outdoor use) may be attempted as an intermediate step prior to complete termination, if it reasonably appears that it will ensure compliance with this Article. However, complete termination of all water service is authorized. In the event of termination of the customer's water service and water service is subsequently authorized, the customer shall pay any and all fees, including a reconnection fee.
(Ordinance 110802-1 adopted 8/2/11; Ordinance 2023-04 adopted 6/20/2023; Ordinance 2024-16 adopted 5/7/2024)
Whenever a corporation or association violates any provision of this article or in a drought response order issued under this article, the president, vice-president, secretary, treasurer, manager or any agent or employee of the corporation or association who is responsible for the violation shall be subject to the penalty prescribed for the violation.
(Ordinance 110802-1 adopted 8/2/11; Ordinance 2023-04 adopted 6/20/2023; Ordinance 2024-16 adopted 5/7/2024)
In accordance with the guidelines of the Texas Water Development Board (TWDB), and in order to meet requirements of the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ), the city has updated its water conservation plan for adoption as a city resolution. The resolution of the city council adopting the water conservation plan shall authorize the city to implement, enforce, and administer the program.
(Ordinance 110802-1 adopted 8/2/11; Ordinance 2024-16 adopted 5/7/2024)
(a) 
Population and customer data.
The City of Buda Public Works Department manages a water distribution service area covering 6 square miles with an estimated water service population of 13,675 residents as of 2023. This population amount does not include approximately 4,000 residents within the city limits that are served by other water utility companies. The city provides drinking water to its customers through a network of over 57 miles of transmission and distribution mains that provide service to 5,175 water connections as of 2023. The city is within the boundaries of the Barton Springs Edwards Aquifer Conservation District (BSEACD) and is located within both Region K and Region L water planning groups administered by TWDB. The population within the city's water service area is anticipated to reach 24,000 by 2030 and over 34,000 by 2050. The corresponding projected total water demands are 3,236 acre-feet per year (AF/yr) and 5,380 AF/yr respectively.
(b) 
Water production and delivery system.
The city utilizes both groundwater and surface water for its public water supply. The city has five wells that withdraw groundwater from the Barton Springs segment of the Edwards Aquifer. The city has an annual historical permit from BSEACD to pump 275 million gallons. The city recently completed an aquifer storage and recovery well (ASR) and is in the process of obtain a permit for additional groundwater from BSEACD specifically for ASR use. The city also receives up to 1.5 million gallons per day of surface water provided by the Guadalupe Blanco River Authority (GBRA) from Canyon Lake. Water is released from Canyon Lake and diverted via pipeline at Lake Dunlap south of New Braunfels to a surface water treatment facility in San Marcos. After the water is treated, it is then pumped via pipeline to the City of Buda. An interim agreement with the city of San Marcos through the Alliance Regional Water Authority (ARWA) is in place to provide up to 0.5 million gallons per day until 2025. At this point, Buda's share of ARWA water from the Carrizo-Wilcox Aquifer will be delivered via pipeline from eastern Caldwell County and the interim water will be allocated back to the City of San Marcos. The city's water distribution system includes four ground storage tanks, and five elevated storage tanks, providing a total storage capacity of 3.1 million gallons.
(c) 
Wastewater collection and treatment system.
Raw wastewater in Buda travels through a network of over 81 miles of wastewater collection lines to the city's wastewater treatment plant. This wastewater treatment plant with help from 16 lift stations serve an estimated population of 18,000 people. The average daily discharge from the plant is around 1.25 million gallons per day (MGD), with a maximum daily wastewater treatment capacity of 3.5 MGD. The wastewater treatment plant produces treated effluent that meets Type I reclaimed water quality standards for beneficial reuse. Currently the city uses reclaimed water for landscape irrigation along roadway medians, parks, and for the landscaping needs of several commercial entities. A bulk reclaimed water station is also available for customers with nonpotable water needs.
(d) 
Water use data.
(1) 
Table 1 below summarizes key water use statistics for 2019—2023. Average per person usage is given in gallons per capita per day (gpcd). Average and peak daily water demand are given in million gallons per day (MGD). The peak day to average day ratio varies between 1.59 and 1.79. The peak day demand over the past 5 years occurred in 2023 when 2.84 MGD was consumed in a single day.
Table 1. Municipal Water Demand 2019—2023
Year
2019
2020
2021
2022
2023
Total GPCD
112
111
109
117
114
Peak day (MGD)
2.49
2.56
2.67
2.69
2.84
Average day (MGD)
1.43
1.44
1.49
1.69
1.59
Peaking factor
1.74
1.78
1.79
1.59
1.79
(2) 
Please see appendix A attached to Ordinance 2024-16 for more detailed information on the city's utility profile.
(Ordinance 110802-1 adopted 8/2/11; Ordinance 2024-16 adopted 5/7/2024)
The purpose of this water conservation plan is to reduce long-term demand on limited water resources by encouraging more efficient water use practices in the city. Its primary goals are to reduce peak seasonal water demand and reduce the total gpcd on the water production and delivery system. The city's annual average water use over the past five years is 113 gpcd. The city's annual average water loss over the past five years is 8 gallons per connection per day.
(1) 
Quantified five (5) and ten (10) year water conservation targets and goals.
(A) 
Goal 1: Reduce peak seasonal daily water demand, total gpcd, and residential gpcd.
TCEQ rules require the city to build capacity to meet escalating peak daily demands, which during the summer months can be twice the amount consumed during the winter months. Reducing those peak demands will enable the city to defer new capital expenditures for production facilities and allow for more efficient use of available water resources. The city will implement recommended best management practices that help reduce peak per capita demand, and programs aimed at reducing the overall total and residential gpcd. Table 2 outlines the targeted goal amounts over the next 5- to 10-year period. More detailed information relating to best management practices for reducing peak demand and overall consumption can be found in table 3.
(B) 
Goal 2: Maintain water loss at or below 8 gallons per connection per day.
The goal of the city's water loss control program is to maintain non-revenue water (defined as unbilled authorized plus unbilled unauthorized usage) water at or below 8 gallons per connection per day. In order to meet this goal, the city has several programs in place, including routine water audits, a program of leak detection and repair, a meter testing and replacement program, and continued reliance on advanced metering infrastructure (AMI) previously installed in 2019. Periodic leak detection surveys of the distribution system will be performed. Table 2 outlines the targeted goal amounts over the next 5- to 10-year period. More detailed information relating to best management practices for maintain water loss can be found in table 3.
Table 2. Water Conservation Goals
Historic 5-yr Average
5-yr Goal (2029)
10-yr Goal (2034)
Total GPCD
113
111
109
Total residential GPCD
68
68
66
Water loss (GPCD)
8
7
6
(2) 
Time frame for achieving conservation goals.
The goals outlined above are designed to be achieved within five to ten years of the date of adoption of this plan. The city will annually evaluate the plan in accordance with state and federal regulations to determine the extent, if any, that the plan needs modification. Water use and water loss data is tracked and monitored on a monthly basis. Annual reports are submitted to TWDB summarizing these results and allow the city of evaluate the effectiveness of the various programs that have been implemented.
(Ordinance 110802-1 adopted 8/2/11; Ordinance 2024-16 adopted 5/7/2024)
During the 80th Texas Legislative Session, Senate Bill 3, House Bill 3, and House Bill 4 were all passed and involved state water planning and conservation. TCEQ and TWDB jointly adopted these rules requiring the submission of a water conservation plan from public utilities that provide service to more than 3,300 connections. These utilities must also provide annual progress reports to the TWDB, describing how they are implementing their conservation plan. Several resource documents have been provided by TWDB relating to best management practices (BMPs) related to water conservation. The best management practices that the city currently utilizes and plans to implement to meet their water conservation goals are as follows:
Table 3. Best Management Practices
BMP Category
BMP
City Program Description
Conservation analysis and planning
Conservation coordinator
The city has designated an employee (Director of Public Works) to oversee and coordinate conservation efforts within the city's water service area.
Financial
Water conservation pricing
The city uses an inclining rate structure outlined in section 24.06.038
Plumbing assistance programs for economically disadvantaged customers
The city currently works with customers through a bill payment plan to help in certain circumstances. The city is researching additional options for this BMP through a plumbing assistance program and a volunteer bill rounding program where customers round their bill to the nearest dollar and the funds go to help economically disadvantaged customers.
System operations
System water audit and water loss control
The city tracks water data on a monthly basis. More details are presented in other sections of this plan.
Advance metering infrastructure
All meters transmit hourly readings. Through a partnership with WaterSmart Software, customers and city staff can detect leaks faster and reduce water loss.
Landscaping
Park conservation
City staff from multiple departments work together to coordinate proper watering schedules to ensure the most efficient use of water. Irrigation improvements will occur at several fields over the next couple of years. Tracking of water use will help keep consumption in check. Park staff regularly attend trainings on turf management and irrigation.
Landscape irrigation conservation and incentives
The city has partnered with LCRA through the Texas Agri Life WaterMyYard.org program which provides weekly irrigation recommendations based on evapotranspiration data. The city plans to further investigate irrigation system design and maintenance guidelines.
Residential landscape irrigation evaluations
The city is investigating whether to provide this service in house or to partner with a third-party to perform these evaluations and/or workshops.
Education and public awareness
Public information
The city has a robust social media presence and utilizes these outlets for water conservation education and information. Print material is also available to customers. The city has a dedicated webpage for water conservation: https://www.budatx.gov/232/Water-Conservation
School education
The city has given presentations to schools and will continue to look at ways of increasing the amount of presentations given to kids.
Small utility outreach and education
The city has partnered with Water Smart Software to implement a customer portal so that customers can track their hourly water usage and receive helpful conservation tips based on their consumption patterns.
Rebate, retrofit, and incentive programs
Conservation programs for industrial, commercial, and institutional accounts
The city is investigating partnering with local hotels and restaurant to ensure they have the most water efficient equipment available.
Showerhead, aerator, and toilet flapper retrofit program
The city has purchased aerators for distribution to customers upon request, and as promotional items at certain events.
Water wise landscape design and conversion programs
The city's 2017 Unified Development Code prohibits turf grass along roadway buffers and internal parking lot landscapes. Soil improvement rebates are currently being written for implementation.
Conservation technology
Rainwater harvesting and condensate reuse
The city has held multiple rain barrel rebate distribution events and will continue to provide this service to customers.
Water reuse
The city delivers over 5 million gallons per year for landscape irrigation of multiple city and commercial properties, along with providing a bulk water station for nonpotable water use needs. The city is currently looking into expansion of the reuse system to serve more irrigation demands.
Regulatory enforcement
Prohibition on wasting water
The prevention of water waste is referenced in the city's code, article 24.06.
(Ordinance 110802-1 adopted 8/2/11; Ordinance 2024-16 adopted 5/7/2024)
(a) 
The ability to meter all water distribution and consumption uses allows the city to closely monitor actual water use, water losses, and to prevent unauthorized use. A master meter is installed on all city wells to account for groundwater production. A master meter is also provided for the city's surface water supply provided from GBRA. All service connections in the city are metered.
(b) 
Master meters at water production wells are calibrated and tested annually in accordance with American Water Works Association (AWWA) standards to provide a minimum accuracy of plus or minus two percent (2%).
(c) 
The city will continue to provide a preventive maintenance program for its water meters, wherein regular scheduled testing, repairs, and replacement are performed in accordance with American Water Works Association (AWWA) standards. In 2019, the city replaced all mechanical water meters with digital water meters that have no moving parts, a long-term warranty, and the capability to be retrofitted to automated metering infrastructure (AMI). This has resulted in more accurate meter readings and the ability to provide customers with detailed water usage data. As part of this meter replacement agreement, the city has a contract to determine the annual weighted average accuracy of all meters replaced following current best practices, in accordance with International Performance Measurement and Verification Protocol and as proscribed by Federal Energy Management Program Guidelines for a period of 15 years.
(Ordinance 110802-1 adopted 8/2/11; Ordinance 2024-16 adopted 5/7/2024)
The city performs monthly water system audits to track unaccounted for water using the following monthly data: billing data (gallons sold), treated water data (gallons pumped), number of repaired leaks (and estimated gallons lost through leakage), and estimated gallons used for line flushing and fire hydrant testing. The city also completes a detailed water system audit following Texas Water Development Board (TWDB) guidelines at least once each year. The city has performed several leak detection surveys in targeted areas of the water distribution system (older sections and areas with higher line breaks).
(Ordinance 110802-1 adopted 8/2/11; Ordinance 2024-16 adopted 5/7/2024)
The city investigates all reported leaks, performs periodic visual inspections, and schedules leak detection surveys of the water distribution lines. The city purchased a leak detection handheld device in 2023 and has used it to more accurately and quickly find system leaks. Reports are prepared and incorporated into the annual system audits. Work orders are generated and prioritized by this program. The city's implementation of AMI will allow for customer notification of potential leaks within hours of a leak being detected by the meter. Notification through WaterSmart's customer portal will be sent via email or text depending on customer preference.
(Ordinance 110802-1 adopted 8/2/11; Ordinance 2024-16 adopted 5/7/2024)
The city utilizes an inclining water rate structure to encourage customers to reduce both peak and overall water usage, while allocating cost of service to each customer class. Under an inclining rate structure, the rate per thousand gallons increases as the amount of water used increases. The rate structure in place as of the date of this conservation plan charges monthly service charges based on meter size, plus a uniform rate per thousand (1,000) gallons up to 6,000 gallons for customers inside and outside the city limits. After 6,000 gallons, the rate per thousand increases slightly per thousand gallons for each separate usage block up to 12,000 gallons and continues to increase per block in price up to 40,000 gallons as detailed in table 4.
Table 4. FY 2023-24 Water Rates
Meter Size
Inside City Limits
Minimum Charge
Outside City Limits
Minimum Charge
Residential and Commercial
5/8 x 3/4 inch
$19.74
$24.70
1 inch
$29.76
$37.06
1.5 inch
$49.37
$61.73
2 inch
$98.75
$123.40
3 inch
$186.15
$232.66
4 inch
$315.99
$395.00
6 inch
$493.75
$617.15
8 inch or larger
$987.45
$1,234.33
Plus the following consumption charge per 1,000 gallons:
1 to 6,000 gallons
$5.40
$7.58
6,001 to 12,000 gallons
$8.49
$11.10
12,001 to 18,000 gallons
$12.70
$15.88
18,001 to 24,000 gallons
$14.96
$18.42
24,001 to 30,000 gallons
$18.14
$21.97
30,001 to 40,000 gallons
$23.73
$28.40
Over 40,001 gallons
$25.27
$30.33
(Ordinance 110802-1 adopted 8/2/11; Ordinance 2024-16 adopted 5/7/2024)
The city's public education program makes thousands of direct and indirect contacts every year through presentations to various groups, community events, utility bill inserts, newspaper articles, social media posts, and via the city's website. Water conservation material is provided to new customers, and existing customers upon request. The city has offered a discount program for rain barrels and plans to expand the rebate program to include other indoor and outdoor residential aspects. The city has partnered with the Lower Colorado River Authority (LCRA) to upgrade existing weather instrumentation located in the city to provide area residents with a weekly recommendation on outdoor irrigation amounts based on actual scientific instrumentation via the website WaterMyYard.org. Customers will also receive conservation tips and education via the WaterSmart customer portal. The city has entered into an agreement with WaterSmart to allow customers to view their hourly water consumption data, and receive customized educational tips and recommendations based on their water use habits.
(Ordinance 110802-1 adopted 8/2/11; Ordinance 2024-16 adopted 5/7/2024)
The city will, as part of contracts for sale of water to any other entity reselling water, require that entity to adopt applicable provisions of the city's water conservation and drought contingency plan or have a plan in effect previously adopted and meeting the basic requirements of 30 TAC § 288. These provisions will be through a contractual agreement prior to the sale of any water to the water reseller.
(Ordinance 110802-1 adopted 8/2/11; Ordinance 2024-16 adopted 5/7/2024)
This section provides information on recommended best management practices developed by the water conservation advisory council and adopted by the city as a means of achieving specified water conservation goals.
(1) 
Conservation coordinator.
This function is fulfilled through the director of public works position. A conservation coordinator is an individual designated to be responsible for preparation and implementation of the utility's water conservation and drought contingency plans, preparation and submittal of annual conservation status reports, promotion of water conservation programs, and other duties necessary to carry out implementation of the utility's conservation program.
(2) 
Landscape irrigation conservation and incentives.
The city provides information to residential and nonresidential customers regarding the methods and benefits of water conserving landscaping practices and devices, through public education to homeowners, business owners, landscape architects and designers, and irrigation professionals. The use of Xeriscape and "water wise" landscaping techniques, including drought tolerant plants and grasses is encouraged for landscaping new homes and commercial areas. The city's 2017 Unified Development Code prohibits the use of turf grass for both perimeter and internal landscaping of parking lot areas, and multifamily residential. A landscape plan prepared by a landscape architect is required for all applicable developments. An automatic irrigation system with a rain and freeze sensors is required for all landscaping. The city is also partnering with the LCRA and Texas A&M Agri-Life to implement innovative methods to promote landscape water conservation. Customers will be able to access specific weather information from a website (WaterMyYard.org) that will provide specific landscape watering recommendations based on weather conditions for the city. The system sends weekly subscription-based email or text updates for watering recommendations to customers who sign up for the service. Weather-based landscape watering recommendations have shown great success with water conservation in other parts of the state and it is believed this new and innovative program will result in significant savings for the city as well.
(3) 
Plumbing code.
The city has adopted the 2021 International Plumbing Code, which requires water saving, ultra low flow (ULF) fixtures to be installed in new construction and in the replacement of plumbing in existing structures. The city educates residents, plumbers, and contractors on the benefits of retrofitting existing facilities with water saving devices through its public education program.
(4) 
Rainwater harvesting.
Rainwater harvesting is an effective method of reducing potable water usage while maintaining healthy landscapes and avoiding problems due to excessive run-off. Rainwater harvesting is the practice collecting and storing rainwater close to its source and using it for nearby needs. This can be done through a rain barrel, cistern (larger container), or a rain garden. In 2016 the city began providing customers with education on the proper installation and use of rainwater harvesting systems, along with a modest rebate for rainwater collection barrels. To date rebates have been issued for over 100 barrels.
(5) 
Water reuse.
The city has received authorization from the TCEQ to reuse its treated wastewater effluent as Type I reuse water, the highest quality of reuse water. The goal for the city's water reuse program is to reduce peak demand on the potable (drinking) water system by switching nonpotable uses of water, such as irrigation, to reuse water. The city provides over 5 million gallons annually to irrigate multiple city, commercial, and multifamily landscapes. In 2019, The city implemented a reclaimed water master plan in order to allow for expansion of the existing system to cover additional municipal and commercial landscape irrigation interests near existing lines. In 2023 the city signed an agreement with the Onion Creek Water Service Company to provide a minimum of 0.5 million gallons per day of type 1 reuse water and engineering design work is currently underway to deliver this water in 2025.
(6) 
Prohibition on wasting water.
The city's drought contingency plan (division 1 of this article) was updated in 2023 and will be reaffirmed in 2024. Outdoor watering schedules were adjusted to better promote water reduction targets. This includes the following prohibitions on water waste, which apply yearround:
(A) 
Operating automatic in-ground or hose-end sprinkler systems between the hours of 11:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m.
(B) 
Allowing water to run off a property or allowing water to pond in the street or parking lot.
(C) 
Operating an irrigation system with sprinkler heads that are broken or out of adjustment.
(D) 
Failure to repair a controllable leak(s) within a reasonable period after having been given notice directing the repair of such leak(s).
(E) 
Operating fountains or ponds without a recirculation device.
(Ordinance 110802-1 adopted 8/2/11; Ordinance 2024-16 adopted 5/7/2024)
In order to track the effectiveness of the water conservation plan, the city compiles and submits an annual report on its water conservation plan to TWDB, which includes the following performance metrics:
(1) 
Summary of public information issued in the previous year.
(2) 
Report on meter testing program.
(3) 
Summary of water loss control program.
(4) 
Peak water demand and overall water consumption.
(5) 
Per capita water usage for the previous calendar year.
(6) 
Evaluation of the plan and progress toward meeting stated goals.
(Ordinance 110802-1 adopted 8/2/11; Ordinance 2024-16 adopted 5/7/2024)
The city manager or his/her designee will act as administrator of this water conservation plan. The administrator shall oversee execution and implementation of all elements of this plan and is responsible for overseeing adequate recordkeeping for program documentation. As a means of implementing and enforcing this plan, all plan elements discussed in this document were adopted by city council Resolution (see appendix C to Ordinance 2024-16).
(Ordinance 110802-1 adopted 8/2/11; Ordinance 2024-16 adopted 5/7/2024)
This water conservation plan shall work in accordance with the related city ordinance, drought contingency and water emergency plan, last revised in June 2023 and as it may be revised or amended from time-to-time. The city will provide a copy of this water conservation plan to the Lower Colorado River (Region K) Water Planning Group, and also the South-Central Texas (Region L) Water Planning Group, as designated by the TWDB (see appendix D to Ordinance 2024-16). The city will also provide a copy of this plan to the Barton Springs Edwards Aquifer Conservation District (see appendix E to Ordinance 2024-16).
(Ordinance 2019-11 adopted 6/18/19; Ordinance 2024-16 adopted 5/7/2024)