As local governments implement a new phase of water conservation measures by asking customers to reduce their usage by a fixed percentage, many may reasonably wonder how to be sure they’re in compliance.

Following suit after the City of Cullman passed a similar measure earlier this month, the Cullman County Commission has begun requiring county water customers to restrict their usage to 85 percent of their usage totals from a year ago.

Just as with the city’s restrictions, the county has not attached the threat of penalties to its resolution. Still, how are customers supposed to know whether they’re using 85 percent (or less) of the water they were using a year ago?

In lieu of asking customers to think about their daily usage in terms of sheer numbers, the commission has outlined some “prohibited” uses that, if followed, are expected to help achieve its current water conservation goals.

These prohibited uses include things like washing cars, filling swimming pools, spray-cleaning sidewalks, watering lawns and gardens — even serving customers drinking water at restaurants.

The restrictions apply only to those who use county-supplied water, and not to those who receive their water from wells or other sources.

Following is a summary of the county commission’s prohibited uses under its current emergency water plan:

“There shall be no hose washing of sidewalks, walkways, driveways, or parking areas,” the water resolution states, except in cases when hose flushing is necessary to help flush away flammable substances “for the benefit of public health and safety.”

No water is to be used to “clean, fill, or maintain levels in swimming pools or decorative fountains unless such water is part of a recycling program.”

In restaurants, hotels “or other public places where food is sold,” no drinking water is to be offered to customers — although customers may specifically request and receive it.

Unrepaired leaks are also targeted. “No customer…shall permit water to leak from any facility on his premises,” the resolution states, noting that leaks left unaddressed can subject the responsible party to a penalty.

Benjamin Bullard can be reached by phone at 256-734-2131 ext. 145.