Water hogs' lament

The California State Water Control Board, saying that Governor Brown's conservation measures are failing to reduce water consumption by 20 percent, today (July 15) approved fines up to $500 for residents who waste water on car washing, landscaping, and lawns.

It was a unanimous 4-0 vote. The board says water usage in May was up 1 percent from May of 2013. The board said that the fine is not so severe; the board is not asking for fewer showers, less toilet flushing, or a complete ban on outdoor irrigation.

But under the rules, you can't irrigate your lawn more than once a week and can't wash cars in driveways. Penalties will be at the discretion of local water districts.