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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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