HomeMy WebLinkAboutItem 18 - Drought Contingency PlanMEMO TO: HONORABLE MAYOR AND MEMBERS OF THE CITY COUNCIL
FROM: BRUNO RUMBELOW, CITY MANAGER
MEETING DATE: MARCH 5, 2024
SUBJECT: AMEND/DELETE A PORTION OF CODE OF ORDINANCES CHAPTER
25 — UTILITIES AND SERVICES
RECOMMENDATION: Consider an ordinance amending the Grapevine Code of Ordinances
Chapter 25 — Utilities and Services, Article V. Drought Contingency Plan,
Division 2 — Conservation Stages deleting in its entirety Section 25-140,
141 and 142.
FUNDING SOURCE: Not Applicable
BACKGROUND: Utilities staff is updating the City Drought Contingency Plan as required by
Texas Commission of Environmental Quality and Texas Water
Development Board every 5 years.
Chapter 25, Article V, Section 25-139 of the Grapevine Code of
Ordinances, which was adopted in 2011, requires the City to follow the
water conservation measures of the Tarrant Regional Water District
("TRWD"). This only applies during extended drought conditions.
his makes the water conservation measures in Sections 25-140, 25-141,
and 25-142 unnecessary. City staff wishes to delete these three sections
to make Article V consistent.
The current TRWD Drought Contingency plan is attached for reference.
TRWD Drought and Emergency Response Stages currently include:
Stage 1, Water Watch:
Raw water supply falls beneath 75% full. Goal is to reduce total water use
by 5%. Cities would limit outdoor watering to twice per week and prohibit
watering between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m.
Stage 2, Water Warning:
Raw water supply falls beneath 60% full. Goal is to reduce total water use
by 10%. Cities would prohibit outdoor watering more than once per week
and ask residents to postpone new landscaping. Agencies would send
more public messaging to conserve.
Stage 3, Water Emergency:
Raw water supply falls beneath 45% full. Goal is to reduce total water use
by 20%. Cities would prohibit all outdoor watering with hose -end
sprinklers and automatic irrigation systems, including at parks, golf
courses, and sports fields. Businesses and residents would be banned
from washing paved areas or buildings without permission.
Staff recommends approval.
TARRANT REGIONAL WATER DISTRICT
DROUGHT CONTINGENCY PLAN
MAY 2019
Tarrant Regional Water District
800 East Northside Dr.
Fort Worth, TX 76102
1. DROUGHT CONTINGENCY PLAN
1.1 Introduction
The purpose of this drought contingency plan is as follows:
■ To conserve the available water supply in times of drought and emergency
■ To maintain supplies for domestic water use, sanitation, and fire protection
■ To protect and preserve public health, welfare, and safety
■ To minimize the adverse impacts of water supply shortages
■ To minimize the adverse impacts of emergency water supply conditions.
TRWD and its customer cities experienced Stage 1 drought restrictions from 2011-2012 and 2013-
2015. Fortunately, water supply reservoirs have not dropped below 75% capacity since. With that
experience, the District has taken a more active role in educating the public about the importance
of reducing water waste and being prepared for the next drought.
1.2 State Requirements for Drought Contingency Plans
This drought contingency plan is consistent with the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality
(TCEQ) guidelines and requirements for the development of drought contingency plans by
wholesale water suppliers, contained in Title 30, Part 1, Chapter 288, Subchapter B, Rule 288.22
of the Texas Administrative Code. This rule is included in Appendix B.
Minimum Requirements
TCEQ's minimum requirements for drought contingency plans are addressed in the following
subsections of this report:
■ 288.22(a)(1) — Provisions to Inform the Public and Provide Opportunity for Public Input —
Section 11.3
■ 288.22(a)(2)
— Coordination with the Regional Water Planning Group — Section 11.9
■ 288.22(a)(3)
— Criteria for Initiation and Termination of Drought Stages — Section 11.4
■ 288.22(a)(4)
— Drought and Emergency Response Stages — Section 11.5
■ 288.22(a)(5)
— Procedures for Initiation and Termination of Drought Stages — Section
11.5
■ 288.22(a)(6)
— Specific, Quantified Targets for Water Use Reductions — Section 11.5
■ 288.22(a)(7)
— Specific Measures to Be Implemented during Each Drought Stage — Section
11.5
■ 288.22(a)(8)
— Provision for Wholesale Contracts to Require Water Distribution
According to Texas Water Code § 11.039 — Sections 11.5 and 11.6.
0 288.22(a)(9)
— Procedures for Granting Variances to the Plan — Section 11.7
288.22(a)(10) —Procedures for Enforcement of Mandatory Restrictions —Section 11.8
288.22(b) — Notification of Implementation of Mandatory Measures — Section 11.4
288.22(c) — Review and Update of Plan — Section 11.10
1.3 Provisions to Inform the Public and Opportunity for Public Input
TRWD provided opportunity for public input in the development of this drought contingency plan
by the following means:
■ Several meetings with customer representatives were held to discuss and coordinate the
development of this plan.
■ The District will provide the draft plan to anyone requesting a copy.
■ The proposed plan was posted to SaveTarrantWater.com web site (April 2019) providing
the public an opportunity to review and comment on the plan in writing.
■ Public comment was available at the Tarrant Regional Water District board meeting held
at the District offices in Fort Worth at 9:30 a.m. on Tuesday, April 16, 2019.
1.4 Initiation and Termination of Drought Response Stages
Initiation of Drought Response Stage
The General Manager may order the implementation of a drought response stage or water
emergency when one or more water supply trigger conditions is met. The following actions will
be taken when a drought stage is initiated:
The designated representative(s) of primary wholesale customers will be notified by email,
mail, telephone, or fax that provides details of the reasons for initiation of the drought stage.
The public will be notified through local media following the notification of primary
wholesale customers.
If any mandatory provisions of the drought contingency plan are activated, TRWD will
notify TCEQ within five business days.
Notwithstanding the foregoing, the General Manager may decide, under special circumstances, not
to order the implementation of a drought response stage or water emergency even though one or
more of the trigger criteria for the stage are met. Factors which could influence such a decision
include, but are not limited to, the time of year, weather conditions, the anticipation of replenished
water supplies, or the anticipation that additional facilities will become available to meet needs.
The trigger conditions in this plan pertaining to TRWD's system volume were established
following an intensive study of the North Texas climate and its impact on water supplies by
Hydrosphere, an engineering firm based in Boulder, Colorado. The 2007 study projected the
effects of simulated weather patterns on the combined storage capacity of TRWD reservoirs. Using
computer simulations, Hydrosphere compared the water savings that would be achieved at various
trigger points with and without outdoor watering restrictions in place. Under severe drought
conditions, the estimated water savings that would be achieved by implementing this plan would
extend water supplies by several weeks.
Termination of a Drought Stage
The General Manager will order the termination of a drought response stage or water emergency
when the conditions for termination are met. The following actions will be taken when a drought
stage is terminated:
■ The designated representative(s) of primary wholesale customers will be notified by email,
mail, telephone, or fax that provides details of the reasons for termination of the drought
stage.
■ The public will be notified through local media following the notification of primary
wholesale customers.
■ When mandatory provisions of the drought contingency plan that have been activated are
terminated, TRWD will notify the Executive Director of the TCEQ within five business
days.
Notwithstanding the foregoing, the General Manager may decide, under special circumstances, not
to order the termination of a drought response stage or water emergency even though conditions
for termination of the stage are met. Factors which could influence such a decision include, but are
not limited to, the time of year, weather conditions, or the anticipation of potential changes in
conditions that warrant the continuation of the drought stage.
1.5 Drought and Emergency Response Stages and Measures
Stage 1. Water Watch
Tri22erin2 and Terminating Conditions
■ Total combined raw water supply in TRWD water supply reservoirs (Bridgeport, Eagle
Mountain, Richland Chambers and Cedar Creek) drops below 75% (25% depleted) of
conservation storage capacity.
■ Water demand for all or part of the delivery system approaches delivery capacity because
delivery capacity is inadequate.
■ One or more of TRWD's water supply sources has become limited in availability.
■ Water demand is projected to approach the limit of permitted supply.
■ Supply source becomes contaminated or unusable for other regulatory reasons (i.e.,
invasive species).
■ Water supply system is unable to deliver water due to the failure or damage of major water
system components.
0 The General Manager finds that conditions warrant the declaration of a Stage 1 drought.
Subject to preceding paragraphs regarding the Termination of a Drought Response stage, Stage 1,
Water Watch, will be terminated when the total combined raw water supply in TRWD's West Fork
and East Texas reservoirs exceeds 95% of conservation storage or remains above 85% for 90
consecutive days, whichever occurs first.
Goal for Use Reduction
The goal for water use reduction under Stage 1, Water Watch, is to decrease use by five percent.
If circumstances warrant, the General Manager can set a goal for greater water use reduction.
Water Use Reduction Actions under State 1, Water Watch
The General Manager may order the implementation of any of the actions listed below, as deemed
necessary. Measures imposing mandatory requirements on customers require notification to
TCEQ. TRWD must notify TCEQ within five business days if any mandatory measures are
implemented.
■ Require customers (including indirect customers) to initiate Stage 1 in their drought
contingency plans. Indirect customers include any successive wholesale customers of
TRWD's primary wholesale customers to the extent provided for in water sales contracts.
All Water Users
■ Maximum of twice per week watering for hose -end sprinklers and automatic irrigation
systems based on odd/even addresses and day of week schedule.
Stage 1, Water Watch, Outdoor Watering Schedules
Monday
Tuesday and Friday
Wednesday and Saturday
Thursday and Sunday
Exceptions:
No Outdoor Watering
Non -Residential Sites
Residential Addresses
Ending in Even Numbers
Residential Addresses
Ending in Odd Numbers
Water System Recovery
Day
Apartments, Parks,
Common Areas, HOA's,
Businesses
1,3,5,7,9
■ Watering with a handheld hose, soaker hose or drip irrigation may occur any day and
any time.
■ Watering of trees and structural foundations may occur any day and any time by
means of handheld hose, soaker hose, or drip irrigation.
0 The use of water necessary to protect the health, safety, or welfare of the public.
■ Water use necessary for the repair of an irrigation system, plumbing line, fountain,
etc. in the presence of person making repair.
■ Variances may be available through the District for the following:
o Establishing new turfgrass and/or landscaping. Variances granted for establishing
new turfgrass or landscaping will be for a maximum of 30 days from the date of
approval then maximum of twice per week watering schedule applies.
o Variances do not apply to the installation (over seeding) of cool season grasses.
o Outdoor watering at addresses with large multi -station irrigation systems may
take place in accordance with a variance granted by the District, if the District
determines that a property cannot be completely irrigated under the twice per
week schedule. Under such variance, no irrigation station will be allowed to water
more than twice per week.
o Areas open to the public and have high -impact from frequent use may be allowed
additional watering with a variance granted by the District if it is deemed to be
beneficial to serve and protect the community facility or amenity.
o Restrictions do not apply to locations using well water, reclaimed water, or other
alternative water sources.
■ No watering with hose -end sprinklers and/or automatic spray irrigation systems between
the hours of 10 a.m. and 6 p.m.
Prohibit using water in such a manner as to allow runoff or other waste, including:
o failure to repair a controllable leak, including, broken sprinkler heads, leaking
valves, leaking or broken pipes or faucets;
0 operating an irrigation system with: (a) a broken head; (b) a head that is out of
adjustment and spraying into the street, parking area, or sidewalk; or (c) a system
that is misting/fogging due to excessive water pressure; or
o allowing any water to: (a) run off property forming a stream of water for a
distance of 50 feet or greater; (b) run into a storm drain; or (c) pond to a depth of
1/4 inch or greater; or
o allowing or causing an irrigation system or other lawn watering device to operate
during any form of precipitation or when temperatures are at or below 32 degrees
Fahrenheit.
■ All users are encouraged to use native and adapted drought tolerant plants in landscaping.
■ Discourage hosing of paved areas.
■ Discourage hosing of buildings or other structures for purposes other than fire protection
or surface preparation prior to painting or maintenance.
■ Washing of any motor vehicle, motorbike, boat, trailer, airplane, or other vehicle shall be
limited to the use of a hand-held bucket or a hand-held hose equipped with a positive -
pressure shutoff nozzle for quick rinses. Vehicle washing may be done at any time on the
premises of a commercial car wash or commercial service station. Companies with
automated on -site vehicle washing facilities may wash its vehicles at any time.
■ Discourage the filling, draining, or refilling of swimming pools, wading pools, hot tubs
and Jacuzzi type pools except to maintain adequate water levels for structural integrity,
proper operation and maintenance, and/or to alleviate an issue that poses a public safety
risk.
Citv and Local Governments
■ Review conditions and problems that caused Stage 1. Take corrective action.
■ Increase public education efforts on ways to reduce water use.
■ Increase enforcement efforts.
■ Intensify leak detection and repair efforts.
■ Audit all city and local government irrigation systems to ensure proper condition,
settings, and operation.
■ Identify and encourage voluntary reduction measures by high -volume water users
through water use audits.
■ Landscape watering of municipal parks, golf courses and athletic fields is restricted to a
twice per week watering schedule; or twice per week per irrigation station if a variance is
granted by the Water District. (See exceptions to outdoor watering restrictions in all
water users category above for facilities with large multi -station irrigation systems.)
Exceptions:
■ Golf courses may water greens and tee boxes as necessary, however, use of spray
irrigation may not be done between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. Encouraged to reduce water
use by five percent.
■ Watering of athletic fields (field only, does not include surrounding landscaped areas)
used for organized sports practice, competition, or exhibition events may occur as
necessary to protect the health and safety of the players, staff, or officials present for
athletic events. Encouraged to reduce water use by five percent.
Reduce non -essential water use. As used herein, non -essential water uses are those that
do not have a health or safety impact and are not needed to meet the core function of the
agency.
Notify wholesale customers of actions being taken and request them to implement the
same drought stage and measures.
Commercial or Industrial
■ All actions listed above for all water users apply to commercial and industrial users.
■ Landscape watering of parks, golf courses and athletic fields is restricted to the twice per
week watering schedule; or twice per week per irrigation station if a variance is granted
by the water provider. (See exceptions to outdoor watering restrictions in all water users
category above for facilities with large multi -station irrigation systems.)
Exceptions:
■ Golf courses may water greens and tee boxes as necessary, however, use of spray
irrigation may not be done between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. Encouraged to reduce water
use by five percent.
■ Watering of athletic fields (field only, does not include surrounding landscaped areas)
used for organized sports practice, competition, or exhibition events may occur as
necessary to protect the health and safety of the players, staff, or officials present for
athletic events. Encouraged to reduce water use by 5 five percent.
■ Stock at commercial plant nurseries is exempt from Stage 1 watering restrictions.
■ Hotels, restaurants, and bars are encouraged to serve drinking water to patrons per
request only.
■ Hotels are encouraged to implement laundry conservation measures by encouraging
patrons to reuse linens and towels.
■ Car wash facilities must keep equipment in good working order, which should include
regular inspections to be sure there are no leaks, broken or misdirected nozzles, and that
all equipment is operating efficiently.
■ All commercial and industrial customers are encouraged to audit irrigation systems to
ensure proper condition, settings, and operation. If irrigation audit or repair occurs
during restricted watering times or days, a sign indicating such work is taking place must
be placed in public view until job is completed.
Stage 2, Water Warning
Triggering and Terminatin4 Conditions
■ Total raw water supply in TRWD water supply reservoirs (Bridgeport, Eagle Mountain,
Richland Chambers and Cedar Creek) drops below 60% (40% depleted) of conservation
storage capacity.
■ Water demand for all or part of the delivery system approaches delivery capacity because
delivery capacity is inadequate.
■ One or more of TRWD's water supply sources has become limited in availability.
■ Water demand is projected to approach the limit of permitted supply.
■ Supply source becomes contaminated or unusable for other regulatory reasons (i.e. invasive
species).
■ Water supply system is unable to deliver water due to the failure or damage of major water
system components.
■ The General Manager finds that conditions warrant the declaration of a Stage 2 drought.
Subject to preceding paragraphs regarding the Termination of a Drought Response stage, Stage 2,
Water Warning, will be terminated when the Total combined raw water supply in TRWD's West
Fork and East Texas reservoirs exceeds 75% of conservation storage or remains at or above 70%
for 30 consecutive days, whichever occurs first.
Goal for Use Reduction
The goal for water use reduction under Stage 2, Water Warning, is to decrease use by 10 percent.
If circumstances warrant, the General Manager can set a goal for greater water use reduction.
Water Use Reduction Actions under State 2, Water Warning
The General Manager may order the implementation of any of the actions listed below, as deemed
necessary. Measures imposing mandatory requirements on customers require notification to
TCEQ. TRWD must notify TCEQ within five business days if any mandatory measures are
implemented.
Continue actions under Stage 1.
Require customers (including indirect customers) to initiate Stage 2 in their drought
contingency plans. Indirect customers include any wholesale customer of TRWD's
primary wholesale customers to the extent provided for in water sales contracts.
Initiate engineering studies to evaluate water supply alternatives should conditions worsen.
All Water Users
Maximum of once per week watering for hose -end sprinklers and automatic irrigation
systems at each service address.
■ An effort will be made by TRWD and its primary customers to coordinate once per week
watering schedules to simplify messages passed to customers through the news media.
However, due to the variation in water storage and delivery systems of TRWD
customers, specific watering days per address may vary across TRWD's service area.
Exceptions:
■ Watering with a handheld hose, soaker hose or drip irrigation may occur any day and
any time.
■ Watering of trees and structural foundations may occur any day and any time by
means of handheld hose, soaker hose, or drip irrigation.
■ Variances may be available through the District for the following:
o All users are encouraged to wait until the current drought or emergency situation
has passed before establishing new landscaping. Variances granted for
establishing new turfgrass or landscaping will be for a maximum of 30 days from
the date of approval then maximum of once -per -week watering schedule applies.
o Variances do not apply to the installation (over seeding) of cool season grasses.
o Outdoor watering at addresses with large multi -station irrigation systems may
take place in accordance with a variance granted by the District, if the District
determines that a property cannot be completely irrigated under the once per week
schedule. Under such variance, no irrigation station will be allowed to water more
than once per week.
o Areas open to the public and have high -impact from frequent use may be allowed
additional watering with a variance granted by the District if it is deemed to be
beneficial to serve and protect the community facility or amenity.
o Restrictions do not apply to well water, reclaimed water, or other alternative water
sources.
■ Encourage the use of covers for all types of pools, hot tubs, and Jacuzzi type pools when
not in use.
Citv and Local Governments
In addition to the actions listed above:
■ Continue actions under Stage 1.
■ Review conditions or problems that caused Stage 2. Take corrective action.
■ Increase frequency of media releases on water supply conditions.
■ Further accelerate public education efforts on ways to reduce water use.
■ Landscape watering of municipal parks, golf courses and athletic fields is restricted to
a once -per -week schedule; or once -per -week per irrigation station if a variance is
granted by the water provider. (See Stage 1 exceptions to outdoor watering
restrictions in all water users category for facilities with large multi -station irrigation
systems.)
Exceptions:
■ Golf courses may water greens and tee boxes as necessary, however, use of spray
irrigation may not be done between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. Encouraged to reduce water
use by ten percent.
■ Watering of athletic fields (field only, does not include surrounding landscaped areas)
used for organized sports practice, competition, or exhibition events may occur as
necessary to protect the health and safety of the players, staff, or officials present for
athletic events. Encouraged to reduce water use by ten percent.
■ Eliminate non -essential water use. As used herein, non -essential water uses are those that
do not have any health or safety impact and are not needed to meet the core function of
the agency.
■ Notify wholesale customers of actions being taken and request them to implement the
same drought stage and measures.
Commercial or Industrial
0 All actions listed above for all water users apply to commercial and industrial users.
Landscape watering of municipal parks, golf courses and athletic fields is restricted to a
once -per -week schedule; or once -per -week per irrigation station if a variance is granted
by the water provider. (See Stage 1 exceptions to outdoor watering restrictions in all
water users category for rules that apply to facilities with large multi -station irrigation
systems.)
Exceptions:
■ Golf courses may water greens and tee boxes as necessary, however, use of spray
irrigation may not be done between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. Encouraged to reduce water
use by ten percent.
■ Watering of athletic fields (field only, does not include surrounding landscaped areas)
used for organized sports practice, competition, or exhibition events may occur as
necessary to protect the health and safety of the players, staff, or officials present for
athletic events. Encouraged to reduce water use by ten percent.
Stage 3, Water Emergencv
Tri22erina and Terminating Conditions
■ Total raw water supply in TRWD water supply reservoirs (Bridgeport, Eagle Mountain,
Richland Chambers and Cedar Creek) drops below 45% (55% depleted) of conservation
storage capacity.
■ Water demand exceeds the amount that can be delivered to customers.
■ Water demand for all or part of the TRWD delivery system approaches delivery capacity
because delivery capacity is inadequate.
■ One or more of TRWD's water supply sources has become limited in availability.
■ Water demand is projected to approach the limit of permitted supply.
■ Supply source becomes contaminated or unusable for other regulatory reasons (i.e.,
invasive species).
■ Water supply system is unable to deliver water due to the failure or damage of major water
system components.
■ The General Manager finds that conditions warrant the declaration of a Stage 3 drought.
Subject to preceding paragraphs regarding the Termination of a Drought Response stage, Stage 3,
Water Emergency, will be terminated when the total combined raw water supply in TRWD's West
Fork and East Texas reservoirs exceeds 60% of conservation storage or remains at or above 55% for
30 consecutive days, whichever occurs first.
Goal for Use Reduction
The goal for water use reduction under Stage 3, Water Emergency, is to decrease use by 20 percent.
If circumstances warrant, the General Manager can set a goal for greater water use reduction.
Actions Available under State 3, Water Emeraencv
The General Manager can order the implementation of any of the actions listed below, as deemed
necessary. Measures imposing mandatory requirements on customers require notification to
TCEQ. TRWD must notify TCEQ within five business days if these measures are implemented.
Continue actions under Stages 1 and 2.
Require customers (including indirect customers) to initiate Stage 3 in their drought
contingency plans. Indirect customers include any wholesale customer of TRWD's
primary wholesale customers to the extent provided for in water sales contracts. .
All Water Users
■ Prohibit all outdoor watering with hose -end sprinklers and automatic irrigation systems,
including at parks, golf courses, and sports fields.
Exceptions:
■ Watering with hand-held hose, soaker hose or drip irrigation system may occur any day
and any time.
■ Watering of trees and structural foundations may occur any day and any time by
means of handheld hose, soaker hose, or drip irrigation.
■ Restrictions do not apply to well water, reclaimed water, or other alternative water
sources.
■ Irrigation of new landscapes and/or turfgrass installations is prohibited by means of
automatic irrigation system or hose -end sprinkler. Variances may be granted for those
landscape projects started prior to the initiation of stage 3 drought restrictions.
However, variances will not be granted for the irrigation of new landscape and/or
turfgrass installations after the initiation of Stage 3 drought restrictions.
■ Prohibit washing of paved areas by any means except where a variance is granted to
alleviate a possible public health and safety risk. Any pressure/power washing activities
must be performed by a professional pressure/power washing service provider utilizing
high efficiency equipment and a vacuum recovery system where possible.
■ Prohibit hosing of buildings or other structures for purposes other than fire protection
or surface preparation prior to painting with high-pressure equipment. Services must
be performed by a professional pressure/power washing service provider utilizing
high efficiency equipment and a vacuum recovery system where possible.
■ Vehicle washing is restricted to commercial car washes, commercial service stations,
or professional washing services only. This includes home and charity car washing.
The washing of garbage trucks and vehicles used to transport food and/or other
perishables may take place as necessary for health, sanitation, or public safety
reasons.
■ Prohibit permitting of private pools. Pools already permitted may be completed and
filled. Existing private and public pools may add water to maintain pool levels, but
may not be drained and refilled.
■ Prohibit the operation of ornamental fountains or ponds that use potable water except
where necessary to support aquatic life or water quality.
Citv and Local Governments
• Continue actions under Stages 1 and 2.
• Review conditions or problems that caused Stage 3. Take corrective action.
• Increase frequency of media releases explaining emergency situation and/or water supply
conditions. .
• Landscape watering at municipal parks, golf courses, and sports fields is prohibited.
Variances may be granted by the water provider under special circumstances.
Exceptions:
■ Golf course greens and tee boxes may be watered by hand as necessary.
■ Variances may be available for watering of athletic fields (field only, does not include
surrounding landscaped areas) used for organized sports practice, competition, or
exhibition events to protect the health and safety of the players, staff, or officials
present for the athletic event.
■ Professional and college sports fields (playing fields with a stadium only — not
surrounding landscaping) may be watered as necessary to maintain league standards.
• Institute a mandated reduction in deliveries to all wholesale customers. Such a reduction
will be distributed as required by Texas Water Code § 11.039.
• If TRWD has imposed a reduction in water available to customers, impose the same percent
reduction on wholesale customers.
Commercial or Industrial
■ All actions listed above for all water users apply to commercial and industrial users.
Landscape watering of municipal parks, golf courses and athletic fields is prohibited.
Variances may be granted by the water provider under special circumstances.
Exceptions:
■ Golf course greens and tee boxes may be watered by hand, as necessary.
■ Variances may be available for watering of athletic fields (field only, does not include
surrounding landscaped areas) used for organized sports practice, competition, or
exhibition events to protect the health and safety of the players, staff, or officials
present for the athletic event.
■ Professional and college sports fields (playing fields with a stadium only — not surrounding
landscaping) may be watered as necessary to maintain league standards.
■ Require hotels, restaurant, and bars to serve drinking water to patrons on an "on demand"
basis.
■ Require hotels to implement laundry conservation measures by encouraging patrons to
reuse linens and towels.
■ Stock at commercial plant nursery may be watered by hand only with a handheld hose,
hand-held watering can, soaker hose, or drip irrigation system.
■ Commercial and industrial water users may be required to reduce water use by a set
percentage as determined by the Water District.
1.6 Procedure for Curtailment of Water Supplies
Any mandatory reduction to deliveries from TRWD to its customers shall be distributed as
required by Texas Water Code § 11.039, which is attached as Appendix I. In addition, every
wholesale water supply contract entered into or renewed after adoption of this plan, including
contract extensions, shall include a provision that water will be distributed in accordance with the
Texas Water Code § 11.039 in case of a water shortage resulting from drought.
To the extent not prevented by enforcement of provisions in the Water District's wholesale
contracts in effect before November 28, 1999, TRWD will implement pro rata curtailment of water
deliveries pursuant to Texas Water Code § 11.039.
1.7 Procedure for Granting Variances to the Plan
The General Manager may grant temporary variances for existing water uses otherwise prohibited
under this drought contingency plan to a customer if one or more of the following conditions are
met:
■ Failure to grant such a variance would cause an emergency condition adversely affecting
health, sanitation, or fire safety for the public or the person requesting the variance.
■ Compliance with this plan cannot be accomplished due to technical or other limitations.
■ Alternative methods that achieve the same level of reduction in water use can be
implemented.
Variances shall be granted or denied at the discretion of the General Manager. All petitions for
variances should be in writing and should include the following information:
■ Name and address of petitioner(s)
■ Purpose of water use
■ Specific provisions from which relief is requested
■ Detailed statement of the adverse effect of the provision from which relief is requested
0 Description of the relief requested
Period of time for which the variance is sought
Alternative measures that will be taken to reduce water use
Other pertinent information.
1.8 Procedure for Enforcing Mandatory Water Restrictions
Water District customers (direct and indirect) shall provide TRWD with an order, ordinance, or
resolution to demonstrate adequate enforcement provisions for the customer's own drought
contingency plan.
Mandatory water use restrictions may be imposed in Stage 1, Stage 2, and Stage 3 drought stages.
These mandatory water use restrictions will be enforced by warnings and penalties as follows:
On the first violation, the customer will be given a written warning that they have violated
one or more of the mandatory water use restrictions.
After a second violation, TRWD will notify the customer of its intent to publish the name
and contact phone numbers of any entity in violation of this water conservation and drought
contingency plan in local print media and on its Web site. In addition, TRWD will require
the customer to implement a more comprehensive public education and outreach program
in a manner that increases the public's awareness about mandatory water use restrictions
and the current drought status. The customer will also be required to submit documentation
to TRWD of the steps it has taken to ensure compliance with this water conservation and
drought contingency plan within 90 days after receiving the second notice of violation.
TRWD may petition the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality to initiate formal
enforcement action against customers that repeatedly fail to comply with the mandatory
water use restrictions implemented during any stage of this water conservation and drought
contingency plan.
1.9 Coordination with the Regional Water Planning Groups
Appendix H includes a copy of a letter sent to the Chair of the Region C water planning group
with this water conservation and drought contingency plan.
1.10 Review and Update of Drought Contingency Plan
As required by TCEQ rules, TRWD reviewed this drought contingency plan in 2019 and will do
so every five years thereafter. The plan will be updated as appropriate based on new or updated
information.
1.11 Drought Contingency Plan Definitions
Term Definition
Aesthetic Water Use Water use for ornamental or decorative features, such as
fountains, reflecting pools, and water gardens.
Alternative Water Source Water produced by a source other than a water treatment plant
and is not considered potable. These sources can include, but
are not limited to: reclaimed/recycled water, collected rain
water, collected grey water, private well water.
Athletic field A sports playing field, the essential feature of which is turf
grass, used primarily for organized sports for schools,
professional sports, or sanctioned league play.
Automatic Irrigation System A site specific system of delivering water generally for
landscaping via a system of pipes or other conduits installed
below ground that automatically cycles water use through water
emitters to a preset program, whether on a designated timer or
through manual operation.
Aquatic Life A vertebrate organism dependent upon an aquatic environment
to sustain its life.
Conservation Those practices, techniques, and technologies that reduce water
consumption; reduce the loss or waste of water; improve the
efficiency in water use; and increase the recycling and reuse of
water so that supply is conserved and made available for other
or future uses.
Customer Any person, company, or organization using water supplied by
TRWD or through an entity supplied by TRWD.
Drip irrigation An irrigation system (drip, porous pipe, etc.) that applies water
at a predetermined controlled low -flow levels directly to the
roots of the plant
Drought Contingency Plan A strategy or combination of strategies for temporary supply
management and demand management responses to temporary
or potentially recurring water supply shortages and other water
supply emergencies.
Term Definition
Fountain An artificially created jet, stream or flow of water, a structure,
often decorative, from which a jet, stream or flow of water
issues.
Golf Course An irrigated and landscaped playing area made up of greens,
tees, fairways, roughs and related areas used for the playing of
golf.
Hand-held hose A hose physically held by one person, fitted with a manual or
automatic shutoff nozzle.
Hose -end Sprinkler A device through which water flows from a hose to a sprinkler
to water any lawn or landscape.
Hosing To spray, water, or wash with a water hose.
Irrigation system A system of fixed pipes and water emitters that apply water to
landscape plants or turfgrass, including, but not limited to: in -
ground and permanent irrigation systems.
Lake, lagoon, or pond Artificially created body of fresh or salt water.
Landscape irrigation use Water used for the irrigation and maintenance of landscaped
areas, whether publicly or privately owned, including residential
and commercial lawns, gardens, golf courses, parks, right-of-
ways, medians and entry ways.
"New landscape" A landscape:
a. Installed during construction of a new house, multi-
family dwelling, or commercial building;
b. Installed as part of a governmental entity's capital
improvement project; or
Alters more than one-third the area of an existing landscape.
Term
Definition
Non -essential water use Water uses that are not required for the protection of public
health, safety and welfare, such as:
a. Irrigating landscape areas, including parks, athletic
fields, and golf courses, except as otherwise provided
under this plan;
b. Washing any sidewalks, walkways, driveways, parking
lots, tennis courts, or other hard -surfaced areas; except
to alleviate a public health and safety issue;
c. Washing any automobile, motorbike, boat (and/or
trailer), airplane, or other vehicle except where required
by law for safety and sanitary purposes.
d. Washing buildings or structures for purposes other than
immediate fire protection, or other uses provided under
this plan;
e. Filling, refilling, or adding to any swimming pools or
Jacuzzi -type pools, except to maintain safe operating
levels;
f. Filling or operation of a fountain or pond for aesthetic or
scenic purposes except when necessary to support
aquatic life;
g. Failure to repair a controllable leak within a reasonable
time period after being directed to do so by formal
notice; and
h. Drawing from hydrants for construction purposes or any
other purpose other than firefighting or protection of
public drinking water supplies.
Park A non-residential or multifamily tract of land, other than a golf
course, maintained by a city, private organization, or individual,
as a place of beauty or public recreation and available for use to
the general public.
Power/Pressure washer A machine that uses water or a water -based product applied at
high pressure to clean impervious surfaces.
Power/Pressure washer A machine that uses water or a water -based product applied at
(High -Efficiency) 1500 pounds per square inch (PSI) or greater.
Term Definition
Reclaimed Water Municipal wastewater effluent that is given additional treatment
and distributed for reuse in certain applications. Also referred to
as recycled water.
Soaker hose A flexible hose that is designed to slowly emit water across the
entire length and connect directly to a flexible hose or spigot.
Does not include hose that by design or use sends a fine spray in
the air. It is not considered drip irrigation.
Structural Foundation The lowest and supporting layer of a structure.
Swimming pool Any structure, basin, chamber, or tank including hot tubs,
containing an artificial body of water for swimming, diving, or
recreational bathing, and having a depth of two (2) feet or more
at any point.
Well Water Water that has been, or is, obtained from the ground by digging,
boring, or drilling to access an underground aquifer.
RESOLUTION OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS
OF
TARRANT REGIONAL WATER DISTRICT
ADOPTING THE WATER CONSERVATION AND DROUGHT CONTINGENCY PLAN
WHEREAS, Tarrant Regional Water District, a Water Control and Improvement
District (the "District"), as a wholesale water supplier, is required by the Texas
Commission on Environmental Quality to develop (a) a water conservation plan pursuant
to Title 30, Part 1, Chapter 288, Subchapter A, Rule 288.5 of the Texas Administrative
Code and (b) a drought contingency plan pursuant to Title 30, Part 1, Chapter 288,
Subchapter B, Rule 288.22 of the Texas Administrative Code; and
WHEREAS, the District recognizes the importance of a long-term approach to
conserving water supplies by reducing the volume of water withdrawn from its reservoirs,
reducing the loss or waste of water, improving water use efficiency, and increasing the
recycling and reuse of water; and
WHEREAS, the plan provides significant benefits to the District, its customers, and
the public they serve through the implementation of year-round water saving strategies
to increase District reservoir storage volumes during wet or dry weather conditions.
NOW, THEREFORE, be it resolved by the Board of Directors of the District that
the Water Conservation and Drought Contingency Plan attached hereto as Exhibit A is
adopted this 16'h day of April, 2019, as the controlling policy of the District.
TARRANT REGIONAL WATER DISTRICT, a
Water Control and Improvement District
By:
Jack Stevens
President, Board of Directors
ATTEST:
Leah M. King
Secretary, Board of Directors
Letter to Region C Water Planning Group
May 1, 2019
Mr. Kevin Ward
Chair, Region C Water Planning Group
Trinity River Authority
P.O. Box 60
Arlington, TX 76004
Dear Mr. Ward:
Enclosed please find a copy of the recently adopted water conservation and drought contingency
plan for the Tarrant Regional Water District. I am submitting a copy of this plan to the Region C
Water Planning Group in accordance with the Texas Water Development Board and Texas
Commission on Environmental Quality rules. The Board of the Tarrant Regional Water District
adopted the attached plan on April 16, 2019.
Sincerely,
James M. Oliver
General Manager
Tarrant Regional Water District
ORDINANCE NO. 2024-021
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
GRAPEVINE, TEXAS DELETING SECTIONS 25-140
THROUGH 25-142 OF ARTICLE V, DROUGHT
CONTINGENCY PLAN OF THE GRAPEVINE CODE OF
ORDINANCES, PROVIDING A SAVINGS CLAUSE; AND
PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE
WHEREAS, City Council approved Ordinance No. 97-33 on April 1, 1997 adding
a drought contingency plan to Chapter 25 Utilities and Services of the Grapevine Code of
Ordinances; and
WHEREAS, Section 25-139 of Article V requires the City to follow the water
conservation measures of the Texas Regional Water District ("TRWD"), making the water
conservation measures in Sections 25-140, 25-141, and 25-142 inapplicable and
unnecessary; and
WHEREAS, the City Council wishes to delete Sections 25-140, 25-141 and 25-
142 to make Article V consistent; and
WHEREAS, all constitutional, statutory, and legal prerequisites for the passage
of this Ordinance have been met, including but not limited to the Open Meetings Act; and
WHEREAS, the City is a Home Rule municipality having full powers of self-
government and may enact ordinances relative to its citizens' health, safety, and welfare
that are not inconsistent with the Constitution and laws of the State of Texas; and
WHEREAS, the City Council finds that there is a public necessity for the enactment
of this ordinance and that its adoption is in the best interests of the health, safety, and
welfare of the public; and
WHEREAS, all statutory and constitutional requirements for the passage of this
ordinance have been adhered to, including but not limited to the Open Meetings Act.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY
OF GRAPEVINE, TEXAS:
Section 1. That all matters stated hereinabove are found to be true and correct
and are incorporated herein by reference.
Section 2. That Article V, Drought Contingency Plan, Sections 25-140, 25-141,
and 25-142 are hereby deleted from the Grapevine Code of Ordinances in their entirety.
Section 3. That this ordinance shall be cumulative of all other ordinances of the
City of Grapevine, Texas, and shall not repeal any of the provisions of said ordinances
except in those instances where provisions of those ordinances which are in direct conflict
with the provisions of this ordinance.
Section 4. That all ordinances or any parts thereof in conflict with the terms of
this ordinance shall be and hereby are deemed repealed and of no force or effect.
Section 5. That this ordinance shall become effective from and after the date of
its final passage.
PASSED AND APPROVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
GRAPEVINE, TEXAS on this the 5th day of March, 2024.
APPROVED:
William D. Tate
Mayor
ATTEST:
Tara Brooks
City Secretary
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
Matthew C.G. Boyle
City Attorney
Ordinance No. 2024-021 2