Some Outdoor Watering Prohibited as Drought Response Reaches Level 2

CLEVELAND, Ga. — As the extreme drought continues in most of north Georgia, the soil moisture has declined, streams are flowing at or below record levels and officials see no relief in sight, the Environmental Protection Division has labeled the drought response at level 2 in 52 counties, including White.

What does that mean for White County residents?

First, outdoor landscape watering is only allowed two days a week determined by odd and even-numbered addresses. Even-numbered addresses and properties without numbered addresses may water on Wednesday and Saturday between 4 p.m. and 10 a.m. Odd-numbered addresses may water Thursday and Sunday between 4 p.m. and 10 a.m.

Prohibited outdoor water uses include:

Washing hard surfaces such as streets and sidewalks;

Water for ornamental purposes, such as fountains;

The use of fire hydrants, except for firefighting and public safety;

Non-commercial washing of vehicles;

Non-commercial pressure washing;

Fundraising car washes.