Durham Tightens Water Restrictions

Durham, N.C. — Tougher water restrictions are now in effect in Durham in an effort to conserve what's left of the city's water supply.

Durham leaders said if the city does not get rainfall anytime soon, it will only have enough water to last 76 days. The lake levels at Little River Lake and Lake Michie, Durham's two main water supplies, continue to fall. Both lakes are at 12.7 feet below full.

The Bull City is now under Stage 3 restrictions to further stretch the water supply, which includes limiting the sprinkler action to Wednesdays and Saturdays and only between 5 a.m. and 9 a.m. or 5 p.m. and 9 p.m. City leaders hope it will help cut water usage by 20 percent.

In addition, carwashing is not allowed unless the water is from a private well system and water cannot be used to wash down patios, sidewalks and driveways. Durham restaurants cannot serve water unless requested.

Chatham County will also move to Stage Three water restrictions, starting Monday. Jordan Lake, the county's main water source, is four feet below normal.

Under its restrictions, Chatham County residents are not allowed to water at all. Violators will have to pay a $250 fine.

The town of Siler City automatically has restrictions when the Rocky River Reservoir gets low. Businesses in the area are required to use 20 percent less water.