Drought Warning Notice
On Wednesday, August 30, 2023, the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) issued a Drought Warning for the Shenandoah Region.
Post Date: 08/30/2023 4:21 PM
The following notice is issued by Executive Director of Frederick Water in consultation with Frederick County Administration:
On Wednesday, August 30, 2023, the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) issued a Drought Warning for the Shenandoah Region. Because of our commitment to protecting our customers and the vital resources on which they rely, Frederick Water is implementing Drought Warning procedures effective immediately.
Residential customers are encouraged to reduce water usage by 15%, while non-residential customers are encouraged to reduce usage by 20%. These water savings can be achieved through voluntary conservation measures and a mandatory reduction in nonessential water use, as found under the Code of Frederick County Chapter 75-04A (2).
Customers should reduce landscaping water use, including watering shrubbery, trees, grass, and other plants, by adhering to the following schedule based on the last digit of residential or commercial address:
- Odd number addresses: Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday
- Even number addresses: Wednesday, Friday, Sunday
- No watering between 10:00 AM and 6:00 PM
Strictly prohibited activities include:
- Washing down of streets, sidewalks, walkways, driveways, parking lots, other hard-surfaced areas, buildings, and structures, except as required for safety concerns;
- Noncommercial washing of privately owned automobiles, trucks, trailers, boats, etc.;
- Using water to maintain fountains, reflective ponds, or decorative water bodies for aesthetic or scenic purposes, except where necessary to support aquatic life;
- Obtaining water from fire hydrants for construction purposes, fire drills, or any other purpose other than fire suppression or public emergency;
- Using water to fill or refill public or private swimming pools; and
- Bulk water sales (haulers).
Customers engaging in prohibited water use will receive a warning notification. Upon the third violation, water service will be disconnected for the duration of the drought.
Frederick Water is committed to protecting our customers through responsible water management. We appreciate the community’s participation in conservation efforts. Visit the Frederick Water website.
