Grand Canyon South Rim Tightens Water Restrictions Amid Ongoing Supply Issues
The Grand Canyon's South Rim is imposing tighter water restrictions after a mechanical issue halted pumping, prompting closures and reduced water access.
August 13, 2025
An Austin homeowner says city drought restrictions made it impossible to meet HOA demands for a perfect lawn - but starting in September, a new Texas law will protect residents from such fines.
Published on Aug 13, 2025 - 18:17 GMT
An Austin, Texas, resident says they've been fined by their homeowners association (HOA) for a "patchy" lawn - despite city-imposed water restrictions that make it nearly impossible to keep grass green.
Posting their dilemma on Reddit under the title "Seeking Advice: HOA Fining Me Over Lawn, But Water Restrictions Make It Impossible," the homeowner explained that about 95% of their yard is covered in grass, but new seed hasn't fully filled in. The HOA issued warnings, then a fine, even after the homeowner explained that city rules allow only one sprinkler watering and one hose watering per week.
Maintaining healthy grass in Austin's summer heat typically requires multiple daily waterings - something the current drought rules prohibit. "It seems impossible to comply with both the HOA's expectations and the city's water conservation requirements," the resident wrote, noting the HOA never responded to their letter outlining the conflict.
It's not the first time drought conditions and HOA rules have clashed. In Florida, a similar dispute once landed a homeowner in jail. However, relief is on the horizon for Texans: starting in September, House Bill 517 will make it illegal for HOAs to fine residents over brown or discolored turf during drought conditions.
This article summarizes reporting originally published by www.thecooldown.com
The Grand Canyon's South Rim is imposing tighter water restrictions after a mechanical issue halted pumping, prompting closures and reduced water access.
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August 13, 2025