Frequently Asked Questions

The Sonoma County Water Agency (Sonoma Water) provides water for 600,000 people in Sonoma and Marin counties. Sonoma Water relies on the Russian River and two reservoirs. As of March 24, 2023, Governor Gavin Newsom has lifted the drought state of emergency and has rescinded the emergency level 2 drought restrictions for the majority of the state, including Sonoma County. There are currently no drought restrictions. Get more information about the impacts of low rainfall on the Russian River.

Drought Relief in the Russian River Watershed

While some parts of the state continue to experience severe drought conditions, we are pleased to announce that in the Russian River watershed, conditions have significantly improved. Thanks to recent developments and Executive Order N-5-23, curtailment orders implementing drought emergency regulations in the Russian River watershed have been rescinded. This signifies that water right holders in this region will no longer be obligated to adhere to curtailment requirements under the emergency regulation, and additional regulations specific to certain areas have also been rescinded.

We appreciate your ongoing commitment to responsible water use, and we encourage residents to stay informed about the specific water regulations applicable to their region.

We have some exciting news to share regarding our city's water conservation efforts! We would like to announce that the Level 2 water restrictions, which included mandatory compliance with various measures, have been lifted.

Let's recap the Level 2 restrictions that have now been lifted.

Level 2 Water Shortage Restrictions (No Longer in Effect)

• Restaurants were required to serve water on request.
• Hotels were obligated to allow guests to opt out of daily linen service.
• Filling new pools was prohibited.
• New water hauler accounts were restricted.
• Rate surcharges were under consideration.
• A water waste ordinance was in effect.
• Ornamental water features without circulating pumps were prohibited.
• Landscaping hours were restricted to between 8 pm and 6 am.

Now, let's explore the current Level 1 Water Shortage Contingency Plan:

Level 1 Water Shortage Contingency Plan: Voluntary Compliance

• Education and Outreach: We will continue to expand our education and outreach initiatives, working to raise awareness about responsible water usage within our community.
• Increased Water Waste Patrols: Our dedicated teams will intensify water waste patrols to identify and address any instances of water misuse.
• Targeting High Water Users: We will focus on the top 100 water users in our city, collaborating with them to explore opportunities for water conservation.

While we are pleased to announce the lifting of our Level 2 restrictions, it's important to note that certain water conservation measures established by the State Water Board remain in place. These regulations serve as the baseline for responsible water management and must be followed by all residents in California. Your continued adherence to these guidelines is crucial as we work together to ensure a sustainable water future for our state.

Yes, residents are encouraged to maintain their vehicles and wash their cars. To practice responsible water usage, please use a hose equipped with an automatic shutoff nozzle, ensuring controlled and efficient water flow. Consider directing runoff towards vegetated or rock areas when available, and opt for cleaning detergents without harsh chemicals to minimize environmental impact.

You are allowed to water decorative grass on your property unless you are in commercial, industrial, or institutional areas, including common areas of homeowner's associations (HOAs). However, please make sure that your watering practices do not lead to excessive runoff.

Yes, restrictions relating to time of day watering have been removed, allowing you the flexibility to water your landscape when it suits your schedule. Keep in mind that watering in the evenings or mornings can improve plant health by reducing water loss to evaporation during hot daytime hours. However, please remember to use water wisely and avoid wastage. Additionally, it's important to note that the application of water to irrigate turf or ornamental landscapes during and within 48 hours after measurable rainfall of at least one-fourth of an inch of rain is prohibited.

For more information: Water Conservation Portal - Emergency Conservation Regulation | California State Water Resources Control Board

While not mandatory, we strongly encourage you to explore the idea of reducing decorative grass watering and replacing it with water-wise plants. This proactive step helps conserve water and makes your landscape more resilient to climate variations. Check out our Cash to Grass rebate program, which can provide up to $1000 for grass removal.

For valuable information and practical tips on converting your landscape and creating a climate-ready yard, we invite you to visit SaveOurWater.com. Additionally, you can visit QWEL.net to find qualified water-efficient landscapers in your area.

Yes, the State Water Board's emergency regulations do not restrict the filling, refilling, or use of swimming pools. You are still allowed to maintain your pool.

Yes, you can fill decorative fountains and pools with a recirculating pump, promoting responsible water use and conservation in our community.

The City is taking several steps, including:

• Promoting water conservation messaging.
• Making it easier to report water waste on the City's website.
• Increasing enforcement against those who waste water. We initially place a door hanger to help educate the homeowner, and then issue fines if problems continue.
• Offering Cash for Grass, which provides a $1 per square foot rebate, up to 1,000 square feet of lawn removed.

Irrigation accounts for approximately 50% of summertime water use. By turning off irrigation during the winter and conserving water in the warmer months, we can achieve our community-wide 20% water savings goal.

• Purchase a front-load washing machine and/or high-efficiency toilet.
• Run the dishwasher and clothes washer with full loads only.
• Consider replacing your lawn with a low-water use alternative landscape. The City of Rohnert Park is offering a $1 per square foot rebate through our Cash for Grass program.

Get other ideas.

We have three sources of water: 45% from the Russian River, 35% from groundwater, and 20% from recycled wastewater. The Sonoma County Water Agency (Sonoma Water) relies on the Russian River and two reservoirs, Lake Sonoma and Lake Mendocino.

The recycled water irrigates our parks and street medians, landscapes at schools and some businesses, Roberts Lake, Foxtail Golf Course and Sonoma State University.

Yes, we have enough water to get us through the drought. In the long run, even accounting for dry years, Rohnert Park's water supply can meet the needs of our current and new residents.

2020 Urban Water Management Plan (UWMP)

The state's water restrictions are based on the overall state and regional situations. The state does not account for local conditions such as those in Rohnert Park, where we have enough water.

There is a critical shortage of housing in Sonoma County, and residents use less water than ever before. Our residents are using 16% less water than compared to 2013, even with the addition of new homes. In addition to expanding the use of recycled water, new housing must have low-flow plumbing and drought-tolerant landscaping. Because of these changes and others, in the long run, even accounting for dry years, Rohnert Park's water supply can meet the needs of our current residents and the new housing.

Yes, we do! The City of Rohnert Park has a water contingency plan.

2022 Update of Water Shortage Contingency Plan (WSCP) (PDF)