The Town of Danvers announces a change in the outdoor water restrictions to Level 5 effective November 4. The change in restrictions is due to low flow if the Ipswich River, low water levels within the reservoir, and limited precipitation over recent months. In addition, due to ongoing brush fires in surrounding areas, there is a heightened demand on the reservoir. More frequent water withdrawals are needed to support fire suppression efforts and maintain community safety.
The Fire Department has issued an order, effective immediately, prohibiting the use of open recreational and cooking fires including fire pits, chimineas, and outdoor fireplaces due to the current extreme drought and red-flag conditions. Use of gas or propane cooking grills is still allowed.
Level 5 drought conditions permit outdoor lawn & garden watering with hand-held hoses and cans ONLY, from 7:00 PM to 8:00 AM. Use of sprinklers and/or irrigation systems is not permitted, as well as swimming pool filling and/or washing of cars. For additional information about the levels of water restrictions, please visit https://www.danversma.gov/654/Outdoor-Water-Use-Restrictions.
As a reminder, violations of the Level 5 drought conditions result in a warning letter for the first offense; subsequent violations may result in a $300 fine. We appreciate the cooperation of all residents during this period.
Residents should be alert to changes in outdoor water restriction levels by way of Town building signage, cable access television, the website at www.danversma.gov, social media (Danvers DPW Facebook & Twitter page), and local newspapers.
