Why are there water restrictions?

As a contractual condition of receiving Lake Michigan water each utility has to enact indoor and outdoor water restrictions. The indoor water restrictions include plumbing codes that require the installation of water conserving fixtures. Outdoor water restrictions include such things as restricting water sprinkling during the hottest time of the day to minimize evaporation.


Many customers might think that because we are supplied with lake water, watering restrictions are unnecessary. This is not the case. Contractually, we are restricted to how much we can obtain, and like the other end users of lake water, outside watering restrictions are mandated.


Restrictions on lawn sprinkling and other water usages are in effect from May 15 through September 15 each year. If the last digit in your street address is odd, you may sprinkle on odd calendar days. If it is even, sprinkle on even calendar days.


On your designated days, sprinkle only between the hours of 7 a.m. and 11 a.m., or 7 p.m. and 11 p.m. Violators of water use restrictions are subject to fines. In drought situations, these hours may be curtailed further. The latest watering schedule is available at 708-503-8200.

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1. Where does my water come from?
2. Why does my water sometimes smell or taste like chlorine?
3. What do you test for in the water?
4. How can I have my water tested?
5. Do water filters work and should I use one?
6. How hard is my water and should I use a water softner?
7. Do I have radon in the water?
8. Why does my water get milky white?
9. Why are there water restrictions?
10. Who should I contact for billing questions?
11. Who should I contact regarding my water pipes or water meter?