CITY OF NORTHAMPTON IMPLEMENTS A WATER USE RESTRICTION

The City of Northampton Department of Public Works (DPW) is implementing a water use
restriction for users of the Northampton Public Water Supply. Limiting water use, especially
non-essential outdoor water use, is needed to ensure a sustainable water supply and to protect
stream flow for aquatic life.

An immediate ban on nonessential outdoor water use is required. The following water uses are
not allowed between 9am and 5pm.

• Irrigation of lawns except by means of handheld hose
• Washing of vehicles, other than by commercial car wash
• Washing of exterior building surfaces, parking lots, driveways or sidewalks
• Production of food is exempt from restrictions.

The City’s water supply system is regulated by the Massachusetts Department of Environmental
Protection (DEP). DEP requires that water restriction be implemented when stream-flow in the
Mill River drops below a certain quantity of flow (26.3 cubic feet per second) for a 3-day period.
The water restriction can be lifted when the stream flow rises about that level for 7 consecutive
days. The City will notify the public when the water restriction is lifted. Please visit the DPW
website at www.northamptonma.gov/dpw for water conservation tips.

Any person found violating these water restrictions is subject to the fines established in Chapter
325 and Chapter 40 of the City Ordinances. These fines are $100 for the first violation and $200
for the second and subsequent violations.

EDWARD S. HUNTLEY, P.E.
DIRECTOR

Original Notice:
Water Restrictions July 2013

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