Stage 3: Water Conservation FAQ

Stage 3: Critical Water Shortage Conditions

Effective June 2025

Q1: What is Stage 3 Water Conservation?

A1: Stage 3 Water Conservation is a set of mandatory measures to reduce water usage during droughts or when water supplies are critically low. It ensures water is preserved for essential needs such as drinking, sanitation, and firefighting.

Q2: When does Stage 3 Water Conservation go into effect?

A2: Stage 3 is triggered when the combined water levels of Lake Corpus Christi and Choke Canyon Lake fall below 20% of total capacity.

Q3: What are the main restrictions under Stage 3 Water Conservation?

A3: The following restrictions apply:

  • Irrigation (sprinklers, hose-end, automatic systems): Prohibited.
  • Drip irrigation or soaker hoses: Prohibited.
  • Hand watering (bucket or hand-held hose): Prohibited.
  • At-home car washing: Prohibited.
  • Decorative water features: May operate only to maintain equipment.
  • Washing impervious surfaces (e.g., driveways): Prohibited unless required for health and safety.
  • Foundation watering: Allowed once every other week on your trash pickup day. Must use a 5-gallon bucket, hand-held hose with a shut-off nozzle, or a drip irrigation system. This follows the same schedule used during Stage 2.

Q4: Are there any exceptions to these restrictions?

A4: Yes, the following exceptions apply:

Pools and Water Features

  • Swimming pools, wading pools, and water parks: May be refilled only as needed to maintain safe operating levels. Use of pool covers is strongly encouraged to reduce evaporation.
  • New in-ground pools: May be filled once after installation to protect the structure. No top-offs or refills allowed after the initial fill. Pools must remain covered when not in use.
  • Existing in-ground pools: May not be drained and refilled. Minimal top-offs are permitted to maintain safety. Must be covered when not in use.
  • Temporary/recreational pools: The use of the following is strongly discouraged during this period:

    Kiddie pools
    Above-ground pools
    Inflatable pools
    Portable spas and hot tubs
    Splash pads, water slides, and similar non-permanent water features

Note: All in-ground pool installations require a permit from the City of Beeville. Residents must meet all permitting requirements and provide documentation if requested.

Private Wells

  • Residents using private well water for pools or irrigation are exempt from Stage 3 restrictions but must register the well with the City of Beeville’s Development Services Department.
  • Water used for recreational purposes must be properly treated for safety.
  • Properties using aerobic septic systems or private wells for irrigation are also exempt.

Commercial Car Washes

  • May continue operating as they typically use water-recycling systems.

Q5: How can I help conserve water during Stage 3?

A5: Additional water-saving tips include:

  • Repair leaks immediately.
  • Install and use water-efficient appliances and fixtures.
  • Take shorter showers.
  • Turn off the tap when brushing teeth or shaving.
  • Collect and reuse rainwater for permitted outdoor uses.

Q6: Why is water conservation important during Stage 3?

A6: Conservation helps preserve water for essential public health and safety needs, ensuring availability for drinking water, sanitation, and emergency services, while protecting long-term water resources.

Q7: What should businesses and industrial customers do?

A7: Businesses and industries must comply with the same restrictions as residents, including:

  • No landscape irrigation
  • No vehicle washing on-site
  • Adoption of water-efficient practices throughout operations

Q8: How will I be notified if restrictions change or are lifted?

A8: The City will provide updates through:

  • The official website: www.beevilletx.org
  • Social media channels
  • Local news outlets
  • Public notices

Stage 3 restrictions will be lifted once lake levels rise above 20%, at which time Stage 1 or 2 measures will apply.

Q9: Will I be billed a surcharge for water use during Stage 3?

A9: No. There are no surcharges for water usage during Stage 3 restrictions.

Q10: What are the consequences of not following Stage 3 restrictions?

A10: Violations may result in fines of up to $500 per incident, per day, after an initial warning.

Q11: Where can I get more information or register a private well?

A11: