Where, when and why are there water restrictions/ bans?
Water restrictions/ bans are in effect in some communities on a permanent basis, yet other communities in the region have never (as of spring 2002) instituted bans or restrictions. Every community now has the authority to do this. Restrictions usually involve limited hours and/or days when outdoor water use can occur. These restrictions vary in their effectiveness. Even/odd restrictions are not consistently effective in reducing overall water use, whereas restrictions to hand watering only during very limited hours are generally quite effective. Bans typically prohibit the use of water outdoors or for other non-essential purposes.