Union County Water: Rates and Restrictions Eased After Drought Relief
The county is shifting from Stage 2 to Stage 1 of its water shortage plan, returning residents to standard billing rates and adjusted irrigation schedules.
By Luis Medina ·
The Catawba-Wateree River Basin has seen improved drought conditions, prompting a reduction in water restrictions for residents of Union County.
Effective Nov. 5, Union County is moving from Stage 2 to Stage 1 of its Water Shortage Response Plan. County Manager Brian Matthews directed staff to implement the change in coordination with the Catawba-Wateree Drought Management Advisory Group. The shift signals a move from severe to moderate water shortage status.
Stage 2 restrictions and higher water rates have been in place since May 15. During that period, Union County Water implemented a premium rate structure to encourage conservation. With the transition to Stage 1, customers will return to the normal water rate structure. This standard pricing applies to water usage beginning Nov. 5 and will appear on the next billing statement.
Residential customers must adhere to a specific irrigation schedule under Stage 1. Homes with even-numbered addresses may irrigate only on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays. Homes with odd-numbered addresses may irrigate on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays. No irrigation systems may be used on Mondays. Customers with approved variances from these rules must keep their yard signs posted for the duration of the variance period.
Commercial and industrial customers face a mandatory requirement under the new stage. Water withdrawn from county hydrants may not be transported outside of Union County for any purpose other than emergency fire protection or bona fide farm use. Access to hydrant water is limited to the county's bulk water program.
The Water Shortage Response Plan is a five-stage system designed to promote conservation year-round. County regulations apply only to customers served by Union County Water. Residents who receive water from private wells or municipal systems should contact their respective providers for applicable restrictions. The county does not regulate private well water.
Customers can check the current status and restrictions at UnionConserves.com. Conditions may change throughout the year, so the county encourages residents to monitor updates from Union County Water.
