Protection against brown lawns during drought restrictions

FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- Severe drought conditions are leaving many angry as the city of Fresno transitions into new, stricter water schedules.

Fresno says water levels are so low it has no choice but to force everyone in the city to cut back even further on their water use.

A lot of people told Action News on Facebook they fear they will be fined by the city or their home owners association for being drought conscious. Now they are protected on both fronts.

Across neighborhoods like Harlan Ranch in Clovis, home owners associations make sure to hold everyone accountable for the look of their lawn.

"(They're) very strict about almost every aspect of what you're doing around your yard and house," said Clovis resident Chris Telesmanic. He is grateful to hear Governor Jerry Brown just signed into law protections against HOA fines for homeowners who decide to limit watering.

"Certain things have to take precedent over HOA rules and I feel like a water shortage is pretty significant," he said.

The state law protecting brown lawns goes into effect immediately. That's good news since watering schedules are being reduced within Fresno city limits.

"Our underground aquifer continues to decline, we do not foresee any change in that, in the immediate future," said Fresno City Manager Bruce Rudd. "So as a result of that we believe stage 2 is appropriate."

Rudd announced the changes Tuesday. They begin August 1. Homes with addresses ending in an odd number can only water on Tuesdays and Saturdays. Those with even numbered addresses can only water on Wednesdays and Sundays.

There will be no watering at all on Mondays, Thursdays or Fridays -- and watering must be done between the hours of 7pm and 6 am. Also watering will not be allowed at all from December 1 to March 1.

Rudd also says he wants the city held accountable. "We also encourage residents to report to the city any problems that you may see with our own facilities," he said.

There are some cities that fine people for dead lawns. Fresno officials say that is not the case here, as long as the lawn isn't excessively overgrown.

The city says it can help you plan and adjust your watering to keep your lawn alive with these new limitations.