Today’s the day to fall back to watering limits

In parts of the world with actual seasons, autumn arrives with changing leaves, chilly air and the smell of wood smoke.

Here it begins on a 100-degree day with a reminder to stop watering your yard every day.

Today marks the start of the fall watering restrictions in the Las Vegas Valley and Boulder City.

Through Oct. 31, the use of sprinklers and drip irrigation systems is limited to three assigned days a week and prohibited on Sundays.

The Southern Nevada Water Authority has begun running radio and television ads and mailing notices about the seasonal change.

"The vast majority of people want to save water. Sometimes they just need a little reminder," said J.C. Davis, spokesman for the water authority.

Davis acknowledged that it doesn't feel much like fall right now -- and technically it won't be until Sept. 22 -- but in many cases plants don't need as much water as people think.

If your plants begin to wilt or your lawn develops dry spots, you can still water by hand on off days, Davis said.

Until the triple-digit heat subsides, residents can run drip systems in the morning and at night on their assigned days as needed to help get plants through the off days.

"It's going to be pretty hot this week. A little help from Mother Nature wouldn't hurt our feelings," Davis said.

Homes and businesses in groups A, C and E water on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, and those in groups B, D and F water on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays.

To find out which watering group you are in, check your last water bill or go online to snwa.com.

The summertime restriction on watering between 11 a.m. and 7 p.m. remains in effect until Oct. 1.

Those caught watering at the wrong time or on the wrong day could face a fine from their water utility.

First, though, a warning is issued.

Davis said that "well above 90 percent" of customers fix the problem before a warning turns into a fine.

Contact reporter Henry Brean at hbrean@reviewjournal.com or 702-383-0350.