Local Water Fine Changes in Austin.

What is happening? City Council approved a change in fee structure for water violations that will benefit residential customers.

Why is this important? 97% of fine recipients have been commercial operations- irrigators and car washes that fail to report as required. In lieu of a $250 initial fine for homeowners, a first violation will be $25, then $50 and then $200-300. For Commerical offenders the fines will be $500 for first violation and then $750.

How will this be important? Since December 2020 the city has not fines residences and in stead has focused on education.

KXAN | Austin City Council votes to increase penalties for companies wasting water