Hopkinton Officials Enforce Stricter Water Ban

HOPKINTON, MA—Following in step with the many towns in the Commonwealth affected by drought conditions, Hopkinton Director of Public Works John Westerling declared a mandatory state of water supply conservation, effective as of Aug. 30.

The conservation restrictions apply to anyone on the municipal water system.

"This action is a result of the recent change in drought status to our area," reads the town announcement. "Massachusetts Energy and Environmental Affairs Secretary has issued a drought warning for our area, which means severe drought conditions persist. It is also based on the recommendations of the Department of Environmental Protection and the Hopkinton Emergency Management Team."

Here are the latest restrictions:

All Outdoor Water Use is Banned.

The following activities are strictly prohibited:

• Watering lawns
• Washing cars
• Filling swimming pools
• All other outdoor water use

The following activities are exempt from this water ban:

• The use of drip irrigation or handheld watering of flowers, gardens, and shrubs before 9 a.m. and after 5 p.m. and the necessary use of water for health or safety reasons, the production of food and fiber, the maintenance of livestock, or to meet core functions of a business

The following penalties apply to violations of this Mandatory State of Water Supply Conservation:

• First offense – written warning
• Second offense - $100 fine
• Third offense and beyond – water service may be suspended