Manteca’s water use for the first 10 months of 2016 is 28 percent lower than the same January-through -October period three years ago.
Water use dropped with the cooler weather, allowing Manteca to meet its 28-percent reduction target right on the nose. Manteca in 2015 slightly exceeded the goal of reducing water 28 percent over 2013 levels despite adding more than 3,000 residents.
Forecasters are warning California could be headed into a sixth drought year this winter despite the current series of storms.
The city and nearby communities are also facing challenges imposed by an aggressive state proposal to commander Stanislaus River water for fish as well as mandates to balance groundwater pumping.
The stricter water rules have been in place for Manteca residents and businesses for 14 months are as follows:
uNo water will be allowed on any day at any time for washing off sidewalks, driveways, patios, parking lots or other exterior non-landscaped areas without a permit obtained from the Manteca Public Works Department office at the Civic Center.
uNo water will be allowed to flow into a gutter or other drainage area for longer than 5 minutes. All water leaks or malfunctions in plumbing or irrigation systems must be fixed with 24 hours.
uNo irrigation is allowed during or within 48 hours following measurable rainfall as defined by storms that generate run-off or puddles.
uNo watering is allowed on Monday or any day between noon and 6 p.m. Watering for even addresses is on Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday while odd addresses can water on Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday.
Penalties include a written notice on the first violation, s a $100 fine with applicable fees on the second violation that may be waived by attending a water conservation workshop a $200 fine and applicable fees on the third violation; and $500 fines for each and every subsequent application plus applicable fees.

To contact Dennis Wyatt, email dwyatt@mantecabulletin.com