Water Restrictions in Place for Algonquin, Lake in the Hills

The dry, hot summer weather makes following water restrictions that much more important, according to area village officials.

The water restriction status is currently set at yellow in Algonquin, which means even addresses may only use outdoor water for landscaping before 9 a.m. and after 6 p.m. on even days.

Odd addresses may only use outdoor water on odd days before 9 a.m. and after 6 p.m., according to the village of Algonquin's website. 

Water availability is currently at an adequate level, Robert Mitchard, public works director for the village of Algonquin, told the village board Tuesday evening.

But Village Board President John Schmitt expressed some concern over the hot, dry weather and its possible affect on the water supply.

He said it was that much more important for the public to be aware of and follow the restrictions in place. 

The village of Lake in the Hills also has water restrictions in place but requires its residents to follow the restrictions year-round.

In Lake in the Hills, homes and businesses with odd-numbered addresses can only use water outside on odd-numbered days. And even numbered addresses can only use water on even-numbered days. 

"The restriction is a simple and effective way to ensure that the village maintains the necessary water supply throughout the year and especially during the hot and dry summer months," according to a village of Lake in the Hills press release. 

The restriction is strictly enforced during the summer. Those who violate the regulation could face a $50 fine for each offense. More information is available on the village of Lake in the Hills website . 

Algonquin publishes the current water restriction status on its website. There are also signs up along major roadways in the village regarding the restrictions. Residents can also call village hall at 847-658-2700 to find out what the current restrictions are. 

Mitchard said the village plans to enforce the restrictions and will ticket those who violate the current odd/even watering rules. Those caught violating the restriction could be issued a $100 ticket. 

The status could change in the coming months depending on water usage and weather conditions. 

Tips for Conserving Water

The village of Algonquin provides the following outdoor water tips for conserving water: 

• Set your mower blades high. Grass that is three inches tall encourages longer, healthier roots, withstands the heat better and requires less watering.  Keep mower blades sharp.
• Dull blades tear grass, which weakens the plants.  Your lawn does not need to be watered every day.
• A good soaking once a week is perfect for a healthy lawn. 
• Aim sprinklers to only water plants, not the sidewalks, driveways or streets. 

The village also offers tips for indoor water use:

• Turn off the water while brushing your teeth and shaving. 
• Check for leaks and fix them immediately. A small leak can waste a lot of water and cost you money.
• Take a shower instead of a bath. This saves about 15 gallons of water. 
• Keep a pitcher of water in the refrigerator instead of running the tap until water is cold. The simple step saves about two gallons per glass.

More tips are available on the village's website