Pressure Washing and The Texas Drought

Article by: Jennifer Flinn

Last weeks rain was not nearly enough to diminish the drought conditions that have plagued Central Texas. There are 254 counties currently affected by the ongoing drought. Conditions are worsening so much in fact, that Gov. Rick Perry has asked for federal disaster assistance for the affected areas.

Since some counties have restricted water use, this will soon have an adverse affect on local pressure washing companies. The Texas Commission of Environmental Quality has four different stages of water rationing. These range from voluntary (V), mild (1), moderate (2), and severe (3). While the majority of public water systems that are affected by the drought are under voluntary, mild, or moderate stages, there are six that are under severe. For example, the San Antonio Water System (SAWS) is currently at Year Round drought restrictions. If they water level in the aquifer drops 7 more feet, then Stage 1 will go into effect. According to their website, in Stage 1, SAWS will prohibit the washing of parking lots, driveways, streets, or sidewalks along with other things. Health and Safety exceptions can be made, but they are only accepted by SAWS in writing. You may request a variance for pressure washing by filling out an online form at http://www.saws.org/conservation/aquifermgmt/variance/pw_request.cfm.

If a pressure washing company is caught cleaning without a variance during Stage 1 restrictions, they will be subject to a fine. Bexar County says that it’s repeat offenders will receive a notification letter first, and then fines ranging from $100 to $1,000 per offense.

Although some pressure washing companies have said they have not felt the affects from the drought conditions yet, Clint Wheeler who owns Hill Country Window Cleaning & Pressure Washing feels that having a reclaim/recycle unit may help the situation. “I think with the help of UAMCC and contractors around the states, we could probably get to where it would be accepted by local, state, and national authorities to reclaim and recycle water, reducing the amount of water used significantly”.

If your business is located in an area affected by the drought, check with your local environmental division before starting any type of pressure cleaning. By doing so, you may save yourself the headache of receiving a citation and a hefty fine.