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Watering Hours / Edwards Aquifer Level:

Updated

  • Home
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  • Water Fountain & Water Feature Variance Request
  • Outdoor Water Feature Conservation Plan

Outdoor Water Feature Conservation Plan

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            • Conservation Plan

              Outdoor Water Feature Conservation Plan

              Required for all non-residential water features with pool surface area greater than 1,000 square feet

              A Conservation Plan is required for all non-residential water features with pool surface area greater than 1,000 square feet to obtain a Basic or Advanced fountain variance.

              The Basic Fountain Variance allows fountains/water features to run for eight (8) hours during stages 1 and 2 and four (4) hours during stages 3 and 4. The Advanced Fountain Variance allows fountains/water features to run for 12 hours in stages 1 and 2 and eight (8) hours in stages 3 and 4 with a required higher level of monitoring. (NOTE: Real-time monitoring technology, such as a computerized central control system, is required to qualify for an Advanced Fountain Variance.)

              The Conservation Plan is to ensure that the water features are maintained and make-up water is minimized. The components of a Conservation Plan are:

              • Owner & operator contact information
              • Location of feature
              • Surface area
              • Monthly water use
              • Sub-meter
              • Sign with operational hours located at the fountain or
              • water feature

              (NOTE: Fountains using 100 percent non-potable water or that are designed as a wildlife habitat water feature may use this form for a variance.)

              Step 1 of 4

              25%
              • Owner Information

              • Enter your 20-digit account number as it appears on your SAWS bill.
              • Operator Information

              • Water Feature

              • (If the square footage you entered is less than 1,000 square feet, you will need to fill out the Basic Outdoor Water Feature Variance to apply for a variance for water features smaller than 1,000 square feet.)
                A sub-meter on the fill line is required to receive a variance for all fountains larger than 1,000 square feet.
              • Technology to monitor real-time water usage during operating and non-operating hours is required for an Advanced Fountain Variance. Describe the control system (manufacturer, system name) in place for real-time monitoring of the fountain's water use.
              • Provide specific operation times you are requesting for your variance.

                • Basic Fountain Variance: For Stages 1 & 2 - there is a maximum of eight (8) hours; Stages 3 & 4 - a maximum of four (4) hours.
                • Advanced Fountain Variance: For Stages 1 & 2 - there is a maximum of twelve (12) hours; Stages 3 & 4 - a maximum of eight (8) hours.
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              • Acknowledgements

                Please read and agree to the Agreement before submitting your Variance Request.
              • I acknowledge that the water feature identified above is without any leaks.

                I acknowledge that the water feature is in good working order, i.e., its recirculation pump and fill sensors/valves are functioning in accordance with manufacturer's specifications.

                I acknowledge that signage indicating the fountain is operating according to city ordinance is located where the general public can see it.

                I acknowledge that the water feature is inspected and maintained on a routine basis.

                I acknowledge that the fill/make-up line is sub-metered.

                I acknowledge that the fill/make-up line has a flow or pressure sensor/valve in which the volume can be read by a digital device (required for Advanced Fountain Variance).

                I acknowledge that prior to operation SAWS personnel must verify the times and stated components of the water feature.

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                • SAWS Main Office

                  2800 US Hwy 281 N
                  San Antonio, TX 78212


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                  P.O. Box 2449
                  San Antonio, TX 78298

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                  210-704-SAWS (7297)

                  8 a.m. – 5 p.m. | M-F

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                  24 hrs / 7 days a week

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