Water usage restrictions effective immediately have been issued in Brunswick and New Hanover counties.
Residents in all parts of Brunswick County are currently banned from washing their cars and watering lawns, grass, shrubbery, trees, plants and flowers. Restaurants in the county are only allowed to serve tap water by request. Those caught violating the restriction could receive a written warning for a first offense, a $100 fine for a second offense, a $300 fine for a third offense. After a fourth offense, the violator risks having water service cut off.
According to a release from Brunswick County, the restrictions were put in place due to a water main break on Thursday. The main is owned by the Lower Cape Fear Water and Sewer Authority.
The burst pipe flooded the area near the main break, and crews had to temporarily shut down the pipes at Kings Bluff Raw Water Pump Station to investigate the cause of the break. Repairs are now underway, but could take several days and pumps will need to be shut down at times in order for work to be done.
As a result, the Cape Fear Public Utility Authority, which handles water services for the City of Wilmington and many parts of New Hanover County, has also issued restrictions for businesses and residents in its service area. Outside water use is prohibited, and people are asked to turn off faucets and other water sources when not needed.
Residents in both counties are asked not to run dishwashers or washing machines unless they are full loads.
Brunswick County residents with questions or concerns can call (910) 253-5383. CFPUA customers needing more information can call (910) 332-6550 or visit www.cfpua.org. CFPUA customers with water emergencies should call (910) 332-6565.
