Water Restrictions

Richfield City Code restricts some water use in order to encourage smart water habits and conservation. Water is a valuable and limited resource. Smart use and conservation is important to ensuring its availability now and for future generations.

WATERING HOURS

Between May 1 and September 30, no lawn or garden sprinkling or other irrigation may occur between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m.

RAIN SENSOR REQUIRED

Property owners must install a rain sensor on new automatic or underground irrigation systems when it is installed. In addition, property owners improving or extending an existing irrigation system must install a rain sensor device at the time of such improvements, if a plumbing permit is required for the work.

EXCEPTIONS

Exceptions to the watering restrictions include:

  • Watering of new landscaping, sod, or seed within 30 days of installation
  • Limited hand-watering of plantings in pots and baskets and vegetable gardens using a hose
  • Athletic fields with special soil conditions
  • Children's water toys that are attended

For exceptions, such as new sod, seed, or landscaping, notify the Utilities Division at (612) 861-9165 to be added to an exceptions list.

PENALTIES

Failure to comply with the restrictions or prohibitions may result in a surcharge, per calendar year, according to the following schedule:

  • 1st violation: Warning
  • 2nd violation: $25
  • 3rd violation: $50
  • Each subsequent violation: $100

The City Council may certify an unpaid surcharge, together with penalties, to the County Auditor to be collected with other real estate taxes levied against the property.

APPEALS

A property owner or violator may appeal the surcharge by submitting a written notice of appeal to the City Manager within ten (10) days of the date of the water bill that includes the surcharge.

QUESTIONS?

Contact the Public Works Utilities Division at (612) 861-9175.