Merced approves ordinance to restrict water use

MERCED, Calif. (KFSN) -- The Merced City Council has approved a new ordinance restricting water usage for residents and businesses.

It allows residents to only wash their cars during the two days a week when they're also allowed to water their lawns. Landscape irrigation will not be allowed within 48 hours of measurable rain. Hotels will now have to give people the option to reuse towels, and restaurants can only serve water upon request.

Council members did have a problem with part of the ordinance requiring new homes and businesses to have drip irrigation systems. Changes to that part of the new law will be considered at the next Merced City Council meeting in July.