Outdoor Water Ban Lifted for Some in Monmouth County

Nearly a week after the collapse of three large water pipes resulted in a regional water emergency, Monmouth County officials have lifted an outdoor watering ban for all non-New Jersey American Water Co. (NJAWC) customers, according to a press release issued by the county.

However, the mandatory outdoor watering ban remains in effect for all NJAWC customers in order to maintain water pressure and supply throughout the lines as repairs continue.

“Even though the ban has been lifted for many residents, public safety officials urge everyone to continue conserving water,” Freeholder Director John P. Curley said in the release. “We look forward to further progress in the days ahead.”

The ongoing water emergency means the following for Monmouth County residents:

• Customers of NJAWC are under a mandatory water restriction that bans all outdoor water use and encourages indoor water conservation. It is illegal for NJAWC customers to water lawns, shrubs or gardens, fill swimming pools and wash cars.
• All restrictions for non-NJAWC customers have been lifted, although conservation is urged.
• New sod or newly seeded lawns and planted shrubs can be watered to an appropriate level.
• Indoor conservation measures include refraining from using washing machines and dishwashers, limiting showering times and flushing toilets less frequently.
• Commercial businesses that rely on water for their operations are not subject to these restrictions.

Because a state of emergency still exists, law enforcement will continue to enforce the ban for NJAWC customers.

“Monmouth County residents should be commended for their cooperation and support during this critical time,” Sheriff Shaun Golden said in the release. “Their efforts helped improve the situation enough to remove some of the bans that had been put in place.”

The emergency was created by the water treatment plant at Swimming River Reservoir in Tinton Falls.