Public Works Commission

Q: When will these restrictions go into effect?
A: October 22, 2007.

Q: How long will the mandatory restrictions be in place?
A: Until the water levels in the Cape Fear River have returned to normal and the state has indicated that the water crisis has passed.

Q: Who does it apply to?
A: All PWC water customers. PWC water services apply to 200,000 people throughout Cumberland County including Hope Mills, Spring Lake, Eastover, and a small section of Hoke County.

Q: What happens if I don't comply?
A: Failure to comply will result in a Notice of Violation and Civil Penalties of up to $1000 per violation and potential termination of water services.

Q: My lawn is going to die if I don't water it.
A: Current restrictions still allow you to water lawns 2 days a week using irrigation systems and sprinklers. Hand Watering is allowed any day.

Q: What are the watering schedules under the new restrictions?
A: If your address is even, you may use irrigation systems and sprinklers on Wednesday and Saturday. If it's odd: Thursday and Sunday.

Q: Is there a certain time of day we are allowed to water?
A: No, there is no time guideline, however, it is recommended to water early in the day or later in the evening to avoid the hottest times of the day. The heat of the day increases the evaporation of the water and your lawn and flowers get less benefit from the water.

Q: I utilize a well for irrigation; do the restrictions pertain to me?
A: PWC cannot fine you for using your well. PWC has signage available that you can post on your property so that officials are aware you are utilizing a well to avoid warnings. Under the current extreme conditions in the state and because the governor is asking all communities to conserve water, you should use your well water sparingly.

Q: Is there a time limit on how long I can water my lawn?
A: No, however, the purpose of the restrictions is to reduce the amount of water we use. Please be responsible in your water use. If we do not reduce our use, it will be necessary to impose stricter measures which could eliminate outdoor water use all together.

Q: I'm going on vacation. What happens if my automatic sprinkler works on the "wrong" day.
A: If you are found to be using irrigation systems or sprinklers on days not allowed, you have the potential to be fined. You should adjust it to comply or turn it off completely.

Q: I can't adjust my automatic sprinkler timer; will I be fined?
A: If you are found to be using irrigation systems or sprinklers on days not allowed, you have the potential to be fined. You should adjust it to comply or operate it manually only as needed

Q: I don't water my lawn; can I wash my car instead?
A: No, these restrictions are in place to reduce our use.

Q: It doesn't seem fair that I can't wash my car.
A: The option to use a commercial car wash is still available to you. These restrictions are in place to reduce our water use. Should these measures not effectively reduce water usage, further restrictions may be necessary which could include banning all outdoor water use.

Q: If I water my lawn with a sprinkler hose instead of an irrigation system, does the schedule apply to me?
A: Yes.

Q: I saw water pouring out of a fire hydrant. Isn't that wasting water?
A: PWC may have to open fire hydrants to flush water lines to address discoloration or water quality issues. PWC has discontinued routine system flushing during the drought however, flushing will be required during March during our annual required water treatment process change.

Q: Can I report violators?
A: Yes- Call PWC at 483-1382 to report violations. Providing an address will be the most effective way for staff to follow up on reports.

Q: Can I fill my pool?
A: Yes. After review of the current conditions in Fayetteville- filling new pools or existing pools is allowed . The restriction was lifted in February by the PWC General Manager. All other restrictions remain in affect until further notice.

Q: I have a pressure-washing business. Will this affect my business?
A: Commercial pressure washing is allowed.

Q: Can I wash my car?
A: Washing of vehicles is permitted at commercial car washes only.

Q: Why only at commercial car washes?
A: Commercial Car washes utilize water-recycling systems and systems that minimize water usage as well as discharge their wastewater into the sanitary sewer system that is treated and returned to the Cape Fear River.

Q: Can I wash my car on my lawn?
A: No.

Q: My organization has a car wash fundraiser planned. Will the water restrictions interfere with our plans?
A: Unfortunately, car washes such as these are prohibited while these mandatory restrictions are in place.

Q: Is PWC watering their grass?
A: PWC is complying with the current watering schedule and has also closed their wash bay for vehicles except for special circumstances.

Q: Are we allowed to hand water plants on our porches?
A: Yes.