About the City's Drought Plan

The City's Drought Management Plan was adopted in 1987 and considered a model for the state by the Texas Water Development Board.

The plan was updated in 1996, 1997 and 2001. Conditions I, II and III were removed from the ordinance in 2001 to reflect a 50, 40 and 30 percent rule. We encourage you to be water-wise year around to help make the most of our limited water resources...because if we save a little, we can save a lot.

Click on the icon to the right to view or download the City's Water Conservation and Drought Contingency Plan.

50 Percent Rule

When the reservoir system storage drops below 50 percent of total system capacity, the City Manager will issue a public notice to inform water users of the Corpus Christi water supply region to begin voluntary conservation measures.

40 Percent Rule

On April 5, 2001, the Texas Natural Resource Conservation Commission issued an Agreed Order which states that when the reservoir system storage is less than 40 percent, but equal to or greater than 30 percent of total system storage capacity, the City will implement time of day outdoor watering restrictions. Additionally, the target inflows to Nueces Bay are reduced to 1,200 acre feet per month. The 40 percent Rule is also part of the City's Drought Contingency Plan as approved by the City Council through Ordinance 24605 on October 9, 2001.

When the combined level of Lake Corpus Christi and Choke Canyon Reservoir System goes below 40 percent of system capacity, Corpus Christi water regional supply (including Corpus Christi and neighboring communities) will be restricted from using water for irrigation of vegetation between the hours of 10:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m.

No person may: (1) allow water to run off from yards or plants into gutters or streets, (2) allow defective plumbing in a home or business to remain unaddressed or (3) allow water to flow constantly through a tap, hydrant, valve, or otherwise by any user of water connected to the City system.

30 Percent Rule

When the reservoir system of Lake Corpus Christi and Choke Canyon Reservoir reach 30 percent of total system storage capacity, the City will publish a lawn watering schedule. In addition, target inflows to Nueces Bay are reduced to zero.