May 18, 2007 11:39 am US/Eastern
Davie Council OK's Year-Round Water Restrictions
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DAVIE (CBS4) ―
Davie council members have tentatively approved year-round water restrictions, which may be extended throughout Broward County.
The proposal would limit lawn watering to three days week between 4:00a.m and 8:00a.m., even if there isn't a drought.
The restrictions would take effect after a second council vote on June 6th. They would stay in place even if the South Florida Water Management District lifts its drought restrictions.
The town also plans a surcharge for heavy water use.
Broward County commissioners will meet next week to consider similar permanent restrictions.
Meanwhile, Oakland Park city commissioners voted Wednesday night to double the fine for people caught violating the Phase III restrictions. Those who are caught watering their lawns or washing their cars outside of their designated day and time will be fined $100 for the first offense, and $200 if they are caught a second time.
City commissioners also approved adding a surcharge to water bills for extra usage. Code enforcement officers have also been instructed to step up their patrols.
CBS4's Carey Codd rode with a Broward Sheriff's code enforcement officer Wednesday and caught one Cooper City resident washing his car. The officer issued a $50 ticket and explained the correct way to follow the rules.
"Right now we are under a severe drought which means that if you do wash your car on your day, it has to be over the grass so that the water has a place to soak through," said officer Monique Marlon.
So far Cooper City leads Broward County with more than 260 citations, Coral Springs officers have written 212 citations.
(© 2007 CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. The Associated Press contributed to this report.)
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