'Water Emergency' Declared In Livingston: What Residents Need To Know

LIVINGSTON, NJ — Livingston has declared a townwide “water emergency” as an ugly summer heat wave bears down on the region.

On Wednesday afternoon, the township announced it is rolling out an immediate water emergency, which will impact anyone who plans to water their lawn.

Here’s what to know about the temporary restrictions:

• Lawn watering is limited to two days per week
• Even-numbered addresses may water on Tuesday and Saturday
• Odd-numbered addresses may water on Wednesday and Sunday
• Properties without a street address may water on Tuesday and Sunday

Irrigation systems equipped with a WaterSense-certified "smart" controller are exempt from these modified restrictions, the advisory noted.

Residents with special circumstances may request an exemption by contacting the Livingston Police Department.

“These restrictions will remain in effect until they are rescinded by the township manager upon the recommendation of the township engineer,” the advisory said. “Additional restrictions may be implemented if conditions worsen.”

Livingston officials said the water restrictions are due to ongoing drought conditions, extreme heat and limited precipitation.

The declaration follows the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection's statewide drought warning, the town’s advisory said.

In Livingston, forecasters say the temperature could reach upwards of 102 degrees on Thursday.

There is also a chance of rain on Friday and Saturday nights – potentially putting a damper on nearby Independence Day fireworks shows.

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