Mandatory Water Use Restrictions Enacted in Westford

WESTFORD, MA — The Westford Water Department enacted mandatory outdoor water use restrictions Friday to be effective immediately.

The department upgraded its water conservation restrictions due to "increased demand," and "to maintain a safe supply of water for fire protection and consumer use," according to a town press release.

Under stage two restrictions, residents will be prohibited from non-essential outdoor water usage that would break the odd/even schedule and will also be prohibited from outdoor watering between 9 a.m. and 6 p.m.

Voluntary water use restrictions had previously been in place urging residents to use an odd/even outdoor watering schedule and to not perform outdoor watering between 9 a.m. and 6 p.m. 

As of Friday the restrictions are orders, not just suggestions.

"Failure to comply with the mandatory restrictions identified under Stage II is subject to a fine of $50 for the first violation and $100 for each subsequent violation. Each day of violation shall constitute a separate offense. Fines are issued pursuant to section 169.7.I (Regulation of Use - Penalties) under Town of Westford Massachusetts General Bylaws," said a Water Department document outlining the restrictions.

Here's how the water department defines non-essential watering subject to the new restrictions:

• Irrigation of lawns using sprinklers or automated irrigation systems.
• Filling swimming pools
• Washing exterior building surfaces, parking lots, driveways or sidewalks, except as necessary to apply paint, preservatives, stucco, pavement or cement
• Washing vehicles
• Any other use deemed non-essential by the Water Department